Senior Propulsion Engineer I Verified today

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and subsystems. We develop hardware for real missions and operate the Neutron program from design through launch site operations.

The Role

As Senior Propulsion Engineer I, you will own subsystems and engine operation for the Archimedes Engine family, the cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. You will drive design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve evaluation capability, and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations.

This role demands technical expertise, strong autonomy, and the ability to align teams and projects to achieve program goals.

What You'll Do

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next-generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
• Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and ensuring alignment with program goals.
• Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
• Work with manufacturing, testing, and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and resolve issues across the engine lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 5 or more years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
• Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and Methyl/LOX propellants.
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
• Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.

Compensation

Base salary: $115,200 to $172,800 USD. Total compensation (base and equity): $135,475 to $208,475 USD. Equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Benefits

Company stock as part of total compensation package. Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount. Medical (HMO, PPO, zero-cost HDHP with HSA company contribution), dental, vision. Paid vacation, sick time, 11 paid holidays. Flexible spending and dependent care accounts. Paid parental leave. Disability and life insurance. 401(k) with company match. Subsidized EV charging. Onsite fitness centers where available. Discounted gym memberships. Complimentary snacks and beverages. 50% employee discount on merchandise.

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.

Requirements for US Employment

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), or 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.