Senior Propulsion Engineer, Archimedes Engine Lead

Rocket Lab; Mississippi; On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is recruiting for a Senior/Principal Propulsion Engineer to lead the Archimedes engine development, testing, and operation for the Neutron program. You will own subsystems, drive design decisions, analyze data, and ensure readiness for flight while aligning across teams.

The role demands autonomy and collaboration, with opportunities to influence multiple groups and advance a ground‑breaking rocket program in the US.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly propulsion hardware for readiness and flight success.
• Develop and execute test plans, qualify components, and review post-test data.
• Collaborate across engineering to optimize performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams.
• Mentor engineers and promote cross-functional collaboration.
• Support engine needs with manufacturing, testing, and vehicle operations teams.

Skills

Fluid dynamics

Thermodynamics

Cryogenic systems

Rocket engine architecture

P&IDs familiarity

Hotfire data reviews

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field

Job description

Rocket Lab is recruiting for a Senior/Principal Propulsion Engineer to lead the Archimedes engine development, testing, and operation for the Neutron program. You will own subsystems, drive design decisions, analyze data, and ensure readiness for flight while aligning across teams.

The role demands autonomy and collaboration, with opportunities to influence multiple groups and advance a ground‑breaking rocket program in the US.