Space Robotics Mechanical Engineer II

Rocket Lab; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Purchase Program (15%+)

Top-tier medical plans (HMO/PPO) and H

Dental and vision coverage

Paid vacation and sick time

11 paid holidays

Flexible spending accounts

Paid parental leave

401(k) with company match

Subsidized EV charging

Onsite fitness centers

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Pasadena, CA, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer II to develop mechanical and electromechanical hardware for space robotics and precision mechanisms onsite at Rocket Lab Robotics. You will contribute to concept development, detailed design, analysis, drawing release, procurement, assembly, integration, environmental test, qualification, and delivery.

The ideal candidate has a strong CAD background, GD&T proficiency, and hands-on experience building hardware for demanding spaceflight

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, mechatronics, robotics, or related field.
• 2+ years of professional mechanical engineering experience.
• Experience designing mechanical hardware, mechanisms, or electromechanical assemblies.
• Experience with SolidWorks and 3D modeling to produce production drawings.
• Knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and manufacturing processes.
• Hands-on experience supporting hardware build, integration, testing.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop precision mechanisms, robotic systems, tools, fixtures, and ground support equipment for spaceflight and ground applications.
• Translate needs into practical mechanical architectures, interfaces, packaging concepts, and verification plans.
• Lead hardware development from concept through production readiness and delivery.
• Design space mechanisms and motion systems including actuators, gimbals, gear trains, bearings, and sensors.
• Maintain SolidWorks models, drawings, BOMs, and assembly documentation.
• Apply analyses and FEA to inform design decisions for stiffness, thermal, and vibration requirements.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, systems, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams.

Skills

GD&T knowledge

Hand calculations & analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Practical hardware development

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Rocket Lab in Pasadena, CA, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer II to develop mechanical and electromechanical hardware for space robotics and precision mechanisms onsite at Rocket Lab Robotics. You will contribute to concept development, detailed design, analysis, drawing release, procurement, assembly, integration, environmental test, qualification, and delivery.

The ideal candidate has a strong CAD background, GD&T proficiency, and hands-on experience building hardware for demanding spaceflight