Systems Engineer II - Mechanical and Fluid - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided)

PSC by Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the aerospace sector is seeking a Systems Engineer II specializing in Mechanical and Fluid systems. This role involves designing and testing systems for the Neutron rocket, requiring strong communication skills and technical expertise. Candidates will collaborate with cross-functional teams and address technical challenges in a high-pressure environment. Relocation to Auckland, New Zealand is provided for the successful applicant.

Qualifications

• 1-5 years of industry experience in Structures, Fluid Systems, Mechanisms, Propulsion.
• Experience delivering complex multidisciplinary systems.
• Knowledge of engineering design and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Drive cross-functional teams for seamless integration of mechanical components.
• Verify requirements through analysis and testing.
• Communicate project status internally and externally.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Technical Assessment

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering

Tools

CAD

Rhapsody

DOORS

Jama

Job description

Systems Engineer II - Mechanical and Fluid - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided)

Join to apply for the Systems Engineer II - Mechanical and Fluid - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided) role at PSC by Rocket Lab

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We build and launch rockets and satellites for ambitious space missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations. Since 2018, our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets. Our upcoming Neutron rocket is an advanced, reusable, 13-tonne payload class rocket designed for future mega constellations. Our space systems include a broad range of satellites and components used in over 1,700 missions, including notable projects like the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, and Mars Ingenuity helicopter.

Role Overview

Join our Neutron team in Auckland, New Zealand, responsible for designing, testing, and setting up Neutron’s launch and test sites across the U.S. As a Systems Engineer, you will support the mechanical and fluid systems design to ensure alignment with program strategies, requirements, and operational phases. This role requires strong communication skills, technical assessment expertise, and the ability to thrive in ambiguity within a small, high-performing team, supporting the project from design to launch.

Key Responsibilities

1. Drive cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical components and fluid systems into vehicle architecture.
2. Verify requirements through analysis and testing, documenting verification artifacts linked to requirements.
3. Evaluate technical program decisions, lead design studies, and identify improvement opportunities.
4. Communicate project status internally and externally.
5. Proactively address technical challenges to maintain project momentum.
6. Define and uphold high-quality engineering processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 1-5 years of industry experience in relevant fields (Structures, Fluid Systems, Mechanisms, Propulsion).
• Experience delivering complex multidisciplinary systems, with awareness of other launch vehicle disciplines.
• Proven collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders from concept to completion.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build professional relationships.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines in high-pressure environments.
• Quick learner with problem-solving skills for ambiguous challenges.
• Knowledge of engineering design, CAD, manufacturing processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with fault-tolerance strategies and safety-critical architectures.
• Understanding of quality management standards and aerospace policies.
• Familiarity with aerospace standards and systems engineering tools like Rhapsody, DOORS, Jama.
• Risk management experience.

Additional Information

This position is based in Auckland, New Zealand, with relocation support. Candidates must be eligible to access U.S.-regulated equipment and data under ITAR regulations, which may restrict eligibility based on citizenship or residency status.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. Applicants requiring accommodations during the application process should contact Giulia Johnson at [e-mail].