Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II

PSC by Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in space systems is looking for a Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer to join their innovative team in Long Beach, CA. This role involves designing high-performance satellite systems and leading cutting-edge projects for civil and defense clients. You'll have the opportunity to work hands-on with flight hardware, manage projects from concept to production, and contribute to significant missions that impact scientific exploration and national security. If you're passionate about aerospace engineering and eager to make a difference in the space industry, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan

Stock Options

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering required.
• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-performance, lightweight satellite systems and mechanisms.
• Manage component designs from conceptualization to production.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

CAD Modeling

Design and Testing

Problem-Solving

Project Management

Education

Bachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Master's or PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD Software

Job description

Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II

Join us to apply for the Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II role at PSC by Rocket Lab.

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We build and launch rockets and satellites for ambitious space missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, national security, and technological demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, and our upcoming Neutron rocket will cater to mega constellations of the future. Our space systems include satellites and components used in over 1,700 missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, and Mars Ingenuity helicopter.

About The Role

We are seeking a Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II to join our space vehicle design team based in Long Beach, CA. The team supports our Space Systems division, leading cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense clients. Mechanical engineers develop high-performance, lightweight satellite deployment systems, mechanisms, and bus configurations, working hands-on with flight hardware and driving technical development of our missions.

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

What You’ll Do

• Support proposals and mission concepts with the Business Development team
• Develop high-performance, lightweight satellite systems, mechanisms, and bus configurations
• Design concepts and configurations for high-value science and interplanetary missions
• Define mechanisms for modern satellite systems/buses
• Manage component designs from conceptualization through production, testing, and operation
• Perform hand calculations and FEA to inform design decisions
• Lead design, manufacturing, and test review sessions
• Create and maintain product definitions via CAD, drawings, and procedures
• Manage schedules, vendors, budgets, and project deliverables

Qualifications

For Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering (or related field)
• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing
• U.S. citizenship (due to program requirements)

For Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer II:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related discipline
• 8+ years of mechanical engineering experience
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing
• U.S. citizenship (due to program requirements)

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering
• Experience in spacecraft/satellite design
• Rapid conceptual design iteration skills
• Mechanical mechanism problem-solving expertise
• Hands-on development/testing experience
• Test data analysis skills (thermal, vibe)
• Ability to take a product from concept to production with minimal supervision
• Self-motivated and autonomous work style
• GD&T application experience
• Experience developing satellite deployment systems
• General spacecraft systems engineering knowledge, including requirements and interface control documentation

Additional Requirements

• Visual acuity (close, distance, peripheral, depth perception)
• Ability to sit, operate controls, communicate verbally and in writing
• Physical ability to commute to work locations
• Exposure to dust, fumes, moderate noise levels

Other Information

Salary is determined based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, 401(k), stock options, and various perks. Specific benefits may vary by location and employment status.