Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer — Build Next-Gen Satellites

Rocket Lab USA; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Subsidized EV charging

Onsite fitness centers

Discounted gym memberships

Complimentary snacks and beverages

50% merch store discount

Employee discounts

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA is hiring a Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II in Long Beach, CA to develop high‑performance satellite deployment systems and bus configurations. You’ll work hands-on with flight hardware, drive technical development, and own designs through production and test.

The role requires a bachelor’s in aerospace or mechanical engineering, CAD proficiency, and the ability to obtain DoD clearance; U.S. citizenship is required. We offer strong compensation and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• Mechanical engineering experience.
• Experience with CAD modeling and drawing.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support the Business Development team with proposals and mission concepts.
• Develop high performance and lightweight satellite systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations.
• 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.

Job description

Rocket Lab USA is hiring a Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II in Long Beach, CA to develop high‑performance satellite deployment systems and bus configurations. You’ll work hands-on with flight hardware, drive technical development, and own designs through production and test.

The role requires a bachelor’s in aerospace or mechanical engineering, CAD proficiency, and the ability to obtain DoD clearance; U.S. citizenship is required. We offer strong compensation and comprehensive benefits.