Space Systems Engineer I: Build Missions & Flight Hardware

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Systems Engineer I in Long Beach, CA to support the Space Systems division. The role involves hands-on work with flight hardware, developing budgets, defining requirements, and guiding system-level design for civil, commercial, and defense missions.

The pipeline emphasizes collaboration, verification, and data-driven analysis across spacecraft subsystems, with growth opportunities into advanced engineering roles in a fast-paced space company.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline).
• Engineering experience in the aerospace industry.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain technical budgets for vehicle performance
• System requirements and verification techniques
• Simulations and analysis across vehicle functions
• Test methods and data analysis
• Lead and own technical development of spacecraft missions
• Assist with program and product management
• Develop interface specifications, CONOPS definition, and other design documents

Skills

Technical budgeting

Requirements definition

Test planning

Systems engineering

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s or PhD in engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

STK

JAMA/DOORS

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Systems Engineer I in Long Beach, CA to support the Space Systems division. The role involves hands-on work with flight hardware, developing budgets, defining requirements, and guiding system-level design for civil, commercial, and defense missions.

The pipeline emphasizes collaboration, verification, and data-driven analysis across spacecraft subsystems, with growth opportunities into advanced engineering roles in a fast-paced space company.