Senior Propulsion Engineer II — Archimedes Engine Lead

Telemetry Today LLC; Long Beach, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 132,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Subsidized EV charging

Onsite fitness centers

Gym membership discounts

Snacks and beverages

Employee merch store discount (50%)

Employee stock purchase program

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer II to lead development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes engine family for the Neutron program. You will own subsystems, drive design improvements, and coordinate with multiple teams to ensure reliability and flight readiness.

The role demands strong autonomy, team alignment, and mentoring of engineers as Rocket Lab advances its launch capabilities across sites in the US. Equity and comprehensive benefits are part of the package.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs and fluid routing.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly propulsion hardware.
• Develop and execute test plans and post-test data reviews.
• Collaborate across engineering 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 the lifecycle from development to operations.

Skills

8+ years experience

Fluid dynamics

Thermodynamics

Cryogenic systems

P&IDs familiarity

Education

Bachelor's in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Tools

P&IDs

Fluid routing

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer II to lead development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes engine family for the Neutron program. You will own subsystems, drive design improvements, and coordinate with multiple teams to ensure reliability and flight readiness.

The role demands strong autonomy, team alignment, and mentoring of engineers as Rocket Lab advances its launch capabilities across sites in the US. Equity and comprehensive benefits are part of the package.