Propulsion Engineer II, Engine Systems

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 151,200; Full time

Job summary

Rocketlab is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II in Long Beach, California, to play a critical role in the development and testing of the Archimedes Engine systems. The role involves designing and analyzing next-generation propulsion hardware, developing clear requirements, and ensuring flight success.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with at least 2 years of relevant experience. Strong technical knowledge of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics is essential. Join a fast-growing team focused on innovation!

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next-generation propulsion hardware.
• Develop requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware.
• Execute engine test plans and conduct post-test data reviews.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for integration and testing.
• Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post-flight analysis.

Skills

Fluid dynamics

Thermodynamics

Cryogenic systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Job description

PROPULSION ENGINEER II – ARCHIMEDES ENGINE SYSTEMS

As an Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. This highly technical role involves ownership of engine subsystems, test campaigns, data analysis, and refining designs for reliability and vehicle operations, while driving system architecture trades, managing interfaces, and optimizing requirements for the vehicle.

Success requires strong autonomy, technical expertise, curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to organize complex systems into actionable plans while collaborating across teams. You will also support engine analysis, simulation, testing, and tool development, bringing deep technical acumen to solve challenging problems. As a self‑starter capable of leading projects with minimal oversight, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast‑growing startup environment that fosters growth and innovation.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next‑generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements.
• Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post‑test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving.
• Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post‑flight analysis.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PROPULSION ENGINEER II

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics‑heavy field.
• Proven ability to conduct hotfire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems.
• Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems.
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/or fluid systems analysis.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations.

PAY RANGE (CA ONLY)

Base salary ranges from $100,000 to $151,200 USD.

LEGALLY REQUIRED STATEMENTS

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. 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]. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

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, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR here.