Lead, Propulsion Test Engineer Verified today
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Neutron Programme
Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering mega constellations, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron programme.
Lead, Propulsion Test Engineer
As the Lead Propulsion Test Engineer you will be responsible for leading the team and engineering work for Archimedes engine testing and ensuring we achieve functional requirements, meet our desired quality and schedule. You will direct the team's engineering efforts across multiple disciplines to ensure Archimedes' success.
What you will do
- Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team of engineers and specialists responsible for conducting liquid rocket engine propulsion tests at the Stennis facility.
- Drive continuous improvement of site processes and procedures to increase test cadence, enhance test quality, and uphold the highest standards of site safety.
- Coordinate site schedules in collaboration with leadership from technician, ground support equipment (GSE), and other key site teams.
- Develop and enhance the test conductor and director training programme to ensure consistent, high-frequency, and world-class engine testing operations.
- Serve as Test Director for critical Archimedes engine and component test campaigns.
- Partner with the propulsion design team to support requirements development and establish comprehensive test requirements and site test plans.
- Define requirements for new facility capabilities and support the activation and commissioning of new or upgraded test assets.
- Champion a strong safety culture for the test team and all test stand operations.
Required qualifications
- 5+ years experience in aerospace or aviation test environment.
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or a related technical field.
- Hands-on experience with propulsion systems, test stand operations, or fluid systems (cryogenics, high-pressure systems, etc.).
- Proven track record of leading a team to deliver complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation.
Desirable qualifications
- Masters or PhD in an engineering discipline.
- Direct experience with liquid natural gas or liquid methane as a rocket propellant.
- Demonstrated excellence in leading a test programme from concept to completion.
- Background of technical expertise in sub-component to full flight system testing.
- Software development for data acquisition and control systems.
- Working knowledge of complex IT systems associated with propulsion testing.
US person requirement
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Working conditions
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.