Archimedes Propulsion Engineer II — Senior Lead

Rocket Lab Corporation; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 164,000 - 277,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Employee stock purchase program

EV charging

Onsite fitness

Merchandise discount

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corporation in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer II to own subsystems of the Archimedes engine family, drive design, testing, and operation, and lead reliability improvements for flight.

This role requires autonomy, cross-functional leadership, and a track record of deep propulsion experience; the team offers equity and comprehensive benefits as part of a total compensation package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, test, and support engine readiness across the Archimedes engine family.
• Develop and execute test plans including qualification and acceptance testing.
• Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize performance and manufacturability.
• Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams.
• Mentor engineers and guide cross-functional teams.
• Support engine needs across manufacturing, testing, and vehicle operations.

Skills

Rocket engine development

Propulsion systems

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering / aerospace engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab Corporation in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer II to own subsystems of the Archimedes engine family, drive design, testing, and operation, and lead reliability improvements for flight.

This role requires autonomy, cross-functional leadership, and a track record of deep propulsion experience; the team offers equity and comprehensive benefits as part of a total compensation package.