Space Robotics Mechanisms Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Medical plans (HMO/PPO) with HSA

Dental and vision coverage

Paid vacation and holidays

401(k) with company match

EV charging subsidies

Onsite fitness centers

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Pasadena, CA is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to develop mechanical and electromechanical hardware for space robotics, mechanisms, and ground support equipment. You will participate in concept development, detailed design, analysis, drawing release, procurement, assembly, integration, environmental testing, qualification, and delivery.

The role requires hands-on hardware experience, solid CAD skills (SolidWorks), and GD&T knowledge.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering or related field.
• Experience designing mechanical hardware, mechanisms, or electromechanical assemblies.
• SolidWorks experience with 3D modeling and production drawings.
• Knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, material selection, and manufacturability.
• Ability to use engineering fundamentals, hand calculations, and analysis tools.
• Hands-on experience with hardware build, integration, and testing.
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• U.S. Citizenship due to program requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical hardware for space robotics, mechanisms, tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment.
• Translate program needs into mechanical architectures, interfaces, and verification approaches.
• Lead concept development through design, analysis, and production release.
• Design space mechanisms and motion systems with actuators, gimbals, gears, and bearings.
• Create SolidWorks models, drawings, BOMs, and test procedures.
• Apply GD&T, tolerance, materials, and manufacturing considerations.
• Support hardware assembly, integration, testing, and fixture development.
• Coordinate with shops and suppliers to ensure timely delivery.
• Document design decisions, analyses, tests, and verification evidence.

Skills

Mechanical design

Engineering calculations

Cross-functional teamwork

Hands-on hardware build

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

3D CAD

Job description

Rocket Lab in Pasadena, CA is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to develop mechanical and electromechanical hardware for space robotics, mechanisms, and ground support equipment. You will participate in concept development, detailed design, analysis, drawing release, procurement, assembly, integration, environmental testing, qualification, and delivery.

The role requires hands-on hardware experience, solid CAD skills (SolidWorks), and GD&T knowledge.