Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab USA; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer to join their innovative team in Long Beach. This role involves developing cutting-edge satellite systems and mechanisms, contributing to high-profile missions, and collaborating with talented engineers. The company prides itself on its commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology. With a focus on teamwork and innovation, this position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the aerospace sector. Join a company where your skills will help shape the future of space missions and technologies.

Benefits

Top tier medical coverage

Dental and vision coverage

3 weeks paid vacation

11 paid holidays per year

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Onsite gym

Childcare concierge

Discounted employee stock purchase program

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience required.
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-performance satellite systems and mechanisms.
• Lead component design, manufacturing, and test reviews.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

CAD Modeling

Problem-Solving

Project Management

Analysis of Test Data

Education

Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's or PhD in Engineering

Tools

FEA Software

CAD Software

Job description

Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I/II

We are currently seeking a Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II to join our space vehicle design team based out of Long Beach, CA. This team supports our Space Systems division, and leads cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Mechanical engineers are responsible for developing high performance and lightweight satellite deployment systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers. They also work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive the technical development of our Space Systems missions.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I or Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer II level)

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Support the Business Development team with proposals and mission concepts
• Develop high performance and lightweight satellite systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers
• Develop concepts and satellite configurations for high value science and interplanetary missions
• Define what mechanisms look like on a modern satellite system/bus
• Own component designs from conceptual design through production, test, and operation
• Perform hand-calcs and FEA to drive design decisions
• Lead key component design, manufacturing, and test reviews
• Create and maintain product definition through CAD, production drawings, and test and operations procedures
• Manage development schedules, vendors, budgets, and other project deliverables

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline
• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of mechanical engineering experience
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline
• Exceptional mechanical mechanism problem-solving skills
• Hands-on development and testing experience
• Experience with analysis and interpretation of test data (Thermal, Vibe)
• Ability to take a product from concept through to production with little supervision
• Highly self-motivated and able to work autonomously
• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering
• Ability to apply GD&T to component designs
• General spacecraft systems engineering knowledge, and experience with requirements assessments and interface control document generation

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
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

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.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$115,000 — $185,000 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, 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.