Thermofluids Analyst II - CFD & Propulsion

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 189,328 - 258,175; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Thermofluids Analyst II to join the Neutron Team. You will contribute to analysis, design validation, and improvements of launch vehicles, focusing on pressurisation, propellant management, and reaction‑control systems across ascent, descent, and orbit.

Responsibilities include CFD, heat transfer, and data‑driven problem solving with close collaboration to design and test engineers. The role requires 3–5 years in aerospace or related fields and strong fundamentals in heat

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 3–5 years industry experience in aerospace/related fields.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer, flow and aerodynamics.
• CFD experience with Fluent/CFX/STAR-CCM+.
• Python with numpy/pandas/scipy/matplotlib.
• Thermal modelling of components and networks.
• Experience with sensors and data post-processing.
• Ability to meet deadlines in a high-pressure environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct concept development, trade studies, and run simulations for pressurisation, propellant management, and reaction‑control systems.
• Perform and validate CFD analyses of launch vehicle fluid systems.
• Execute heat‑transfer simulations and integrated thermal analyses.
• Develop and document thermofluid analyses of systems and models.
• Collaborate with design/test engineers to iterate concepts and requirements.
• Interpret ground test and flight data and resolve sensor issues.
• Apply physics to diagnose vehicle anomalies through data analysis.
• Peer review analyses and document methodologies.
• Support testing and prepare pre/post-test analyses.

Skills

CFD Software

Python

Heat transfer

Aerospace engineering

Fluid dynamics

Education

Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Thermal Desktop

THERMICA

NX SST

Git

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Thermofluids Analyst II to join the Neutron Team. You will contribute to analysis, design validation, and improvements of launch vehicles, focusing on pressurisation, propellant management, and reaction‑control systems across ascent, descent, and orbit.

Responsibilities include CFD, heat transfer, and data‑driven problem solving with close collaboration to design and test engineers. The role requires 3–5 years in aerospace or related fields and strong fundamentals in heat