Mechanical Development & Test Engineer II Verified today

Rocket Lab · Long Beach, CA · Production · first seen 2026-09-12

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, and expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

The Role

Based in Long Beach, CA, you'll lead and execute test campaigns for satellite components and systems. You'll design and implement test setups, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with test requirements while collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and improve test processes.

What You'll Do

  • Lead the execution of qualification and acceptance test campaigns for satellite components and systems
  • Design and implement test setups, including mechanical fixtures, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems
  • Analyze test data and generate detailed test reports
  • Collaborate with design and systems engineers to define test requirements and ensure compliance
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during testing
  • Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of test processes and infrastructure

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
  • 2+ years of experience in mechanical testing, aerospace, or a related field
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, or similar)
  • Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock)
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems

Nice to Have

  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
  • Experience with test automation and scripting
  • Familiarity with Confluence and JIRA
  • Experience leading small teams or projects

Compensation

Base Salary: $100,800 to $138,600 USD

Total Compensation (base and equity): $110,875 to $156,225 USD

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 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 company merchandise, and various other employee discounts.

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.