Mechanical Test Engineer I 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.

Space Systems

Rocket Lab's Space Systems team builds complete spacecraft, precision payloads, and components including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, and radios. The team has enabled more than 1,700 missions ranging from interplanetary exploration to national security initiatives, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.

The Role

Based in Long Beach, CA, the Mechanical Test Engineer I supports the design, build, and execution of internal test capabilities. This includes assisting with test setups for qualification and acceptance tests for satellite components and systems. Hardware tests may include avionics boxes, complex mechanisms, and fully integrated spacecraft in stressing environments.

What You'll Do

• Assist in the preparation and execution of qualification and acceptance test campaigns.
• Support the development and maintenance of test infrastructure and equipment.
• Perform hands-on assembly and disassembly of test setups, including instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Collaborate with senior engineers to ensure test setups meet design and safety requirements.
• Document test procedures, results, and lessons learned.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues during testing under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards during test operations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• 0+ years of experience in mechanical testing, aerospace, or a related field (internship experience is acceptable).
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Basic understanding of mechanical systems and testing principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).
• Experience with Python or MATLAB for data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical assembly or prototyping.

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.

Compensation

Base Salary: $83,200 to $106,080 USD

Total Compensation (base and equity): $90,150 to $116,025 USD

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock as part of total compensation, Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount, medical plans (HMO, PPO, zero cost HDHP with HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers where available, discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on merchandise, and various other employee discounts.