Thermal Protection Systems Engineer for Space Vehicle

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Development Engineer II focused on Thermal Protection Systems. You will design and iterate TPS components for the Neutron launch vehicle, collaborating with analysis, design, and manufacturing teams to translate concepts into precise components using metallic and composite materials.

You will lead 1D and 2D/3D analysis, develop hardware and test articles for development testing, and support qualification, manufacturing, and integration activities while mentoring junior

Qualifications

• Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification.
• 2-4 years of design experience in high-performance mechanical or thermal systems.
• Strong understanding of material science, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and aerodynamics in TPS.

Responsibilities

• Drive rapid conceptual CAD designs for TPS and subassemblies in metallic and composite structures.
• Design elements like assemblies, seals, interfaces, and fasteners with analysts to meet specs.
• Lead creation of detailed drawings and assembly models for manufacture.

Skills

CAD design

Thermal protection systems

Materials science

Analysis & testing

Communication & teamwork

Education

Aerospace/Mechanical/Mechatronic degree

Tools

CAD software

Modeling tools

Python & MATLAB

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Development Engineer II focused on Thermal Protection Systems. You will design and iterate TPS components for the Neutron launch vehicle, collaborating with analysis, design, and manufacturing teams to translate concepts into precise components using metallic and composite materials.

You will lead 1D and 2D/3D analysis, develop hardware and test articles for development testing, and support qualification, manufacturing, and integration activities while mentoring junior