Mechanical Test Engineer II

rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Employee stock purchase program

Healthcare plans

Job summary

Rocket Lab, a leading space systems company, seeks a Mechanical Test Engineer II to lead test campaigns for satellite components. You will design test setups, collect data, and collaborate with design and systems engineers to ensure compliant testing processes.

The role requires 2+ years in mechanical testing, strong CAD skills, and experience with environmental tests. Competitive compensation and equity are offered. On-site in Long Beach, CA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in mechanical testing, aerospace, or a related field.
• Proficiency in CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of qualification and acceptance test campaigns for satellite components and systems.
• Design and implement test setups, including mechanical fixtures, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze test data and generate detailed test reports.
• Collaborate with design and systems engineers to define test requirements and ensure compliance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during testing.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of test processes and infrastructure.

Skills

Mechanical testing

Aerospace engineering

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Python

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Master's degree (nice to have)

Tools

NX/ SolidWorks CAD

Confluence

JIRA

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

MECHANICAL TEST ENGINEER II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Mechanical Test Engineer II is responsible for leading and executing test campaigns for satellite components and systems. This includes designing and implementing test setups, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with test requirements. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to develop and improve test processes.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Lead the execution of qualification and acceptance test campaigns for satellite components and systems.
• Design and implement test setups, including mechanical fixtures, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze test data and generate detailed test reports.
• Collaborate with design and systems engineers to define test requirements and ensure compliance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during testing.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of test processes and infrastructure.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS A MECHANICAL TEST ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in mechanical testing, aerospace, or a related field.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with test automation and scripting.
• Familiarity with Confluence and JIRA.
• Experience leading small teams or projects.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package , giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Total Compensation (base and equity) $105,275 - $136,625 USD

Base Salary $95,200 - $119,000 USD

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, d