Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior - Fluids

Rocket Lab USA; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior - Fluids located in Wallops Island, Virginia. This role involves designing and activating critical fluid systems for the Neutron Launch Vehicle.

The ideal candidate will have an ABET accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 2+ years of aerospace experience. Proficiency in CAD software is essential. Join us in pushing the boundaries of space exploration!

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Strong engineering fundamentals.
• Knowledge of P&IDs.

Responsibilities

• Design fluid systems including cryogenics, hydraulics, and fuels.
• Create and maintain schematics of fluid/process systems.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams.

Skills

Fluid systems knowledge

CAD software proficiency (NX, Solidworks)

Design calculations

Education

ABET accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

NX

Solidworks

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more - all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re‑usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II/SENIOR - FLUIDS

As a Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior - Fluids, you will be the subject matter expert and technical decision‑maker, responsible for design, build, and activation activities associated with critical systems that directly support the Neutron Launch Vehicle. You'll work on systems that operate in harsh and hazardous environments, ensuring that they meet the rigorous demands of space exploration.

This role is hands‑on and collaborative, requiring you to work closely with suppliers, technicians, and cross‑functional teams to deliver world‑class solutions. From concept to commissioning, you will play a key role in ensuring Rocket Lab's Ground Systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support our missions.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Design of fluid systems including cryogenics, hydraulics, fuels, high pressure gases and HVAC.
• 2D and 3D modelling through the use of CAD software, specifically NX.
• System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods.
• Generate & maintain schematics of fluid/process systems e.g. P&IDs, connection diagrams.
• Component selection, development, and maintenance of BOMs.
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
• Support certification of launch pad fluid systems.
• Support maintenance program development.

(NOTE: This position can be hired as a Level II Engineer or a Senior Engineer I level.)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LEVEL II ENGINEER:

• ABET accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Strong engineering fundamentals and ability to perform required design calculations with limited guidance from senior level engineers.
• 2+ years of experience in directly applicable design, testing, and/or operations within the aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Knowledge of fluid systems, sizing calculations, and P&IDs.
• Proficiency in CAD software (NX, Solidworks).

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER I:

• ABET accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Ability to mentor and guide entry level engineers through the design process of fluids systems.
• 5+ years of experience in directly applicable design, testing, and/or operations within the aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Knowledge of fluid systems, sizing calculations, and P&IDs.
• Proficiency in CAD software (NX, Solidworks).

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Equivalent.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, autonomous environment.
• Professional Engineer License.
• Experience with Piping systems (large or small).
• Experience with launch pad systems, engine test stand, or other similar industry experience.
• Experience with rocket or payload conditioning systems.
• Experience with equipment for use with Oxygen.
• Experience with Nodal Analysis Tools (e.g. GFSSP, AFT).
• Experience with pipe stress software (e.g. Ceasar II).
• Experience with ASME, ASTM, NFPA, and/or NASA ground system standards would be an asset.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out‑think, out‑work and out‑pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [e-mail]. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.