Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I - Satellite Mechanisms

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

401(k) company match

Onsite gym

Paid vacation and holidays

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I to join the Space Systems division in Long Beach, CA. You will develop high‑performance satellite mechanisms and bus configurations, work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive design across production and testing.

The role requires a Bachelor's in aerospace/mechanical engineering (or related), CAD proficiency, and the ability to obtain DoD clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for program eligibility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering or other engineering discipline.
• 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 proposals and mission concepts for BD team.
• Develop high‑performance and lightweight satellite systems and configurations.
• Define mechanisms on a modern satellite system/bus.
• Own component designs from concept through production, test and operation.
• Perform hand calculations and FEA to drive design decisions.
• Lead key component design, manufacturing, and test reviews.
• Create and maintain product definition through CAD, drawings, and procedures.
• Manage development schedules, vendors, budgets, and other project deliverables.

Skills

Mechanical engineering experience

CAD modeling and drawing

DoD security clearance

U.S. citizenship required

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I to join the Space Systems division in Long Beach, CA. You will develop high‑performance satellite mechanisms and bus configurations, work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive design across production and testing.

The role requires a Bachelor's in aerospace/mechanical engineering (or related), CAD proficiency, and the ability to obtain DoD clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for program eligibility.