Spacecraft Propulsion Systems 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.
The Role
We're seeking a Spacecraft Propulsion Systems Engineer I for our propulsion engineering team based in Long Beach, CA. You will take system-level and component-level ownership of space systems propulsion and fluidic development, supporting our Space Systems division on cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers.
What You'll Do
- Own development of new or existing propulsion products and systems, acting as technical lead to guide teams through end-to-end development
- Perform conceptual and detailed mechanical design in CAD for propulsion system components, plus performance calculations and analysis
- Review and approve drawings, 3D PMI, reports, and specifications from team members
- Plan and execute propulsion testing: setup, instrumentation, execution, and data analysis
- Communicate with internal and external project stakeholders
- Make technical risk-based decisions to identify the best engineering solutions
- Manage project schedules, identify priority items, task engineers and technicians, and report status to leadership
- Mentor and coach team members on technical and professional development
- Define and maintain standards of excellence through documentation, training, and review of others' work
- Contribute to propulsion engineering process development and documentation
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
- Experience in propulsion system development or other high-performance field
- US citizenship required due to program requirements and ITAR export regulations
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
- Detailed mechanical design experience using NX or equivalent CAD software
- Experience with Product Lifecycle Management software such as Teamcenter or Windchill
- Experience with propulsion systems utilizing storable propellants, including electrical and chemical
- Track record of design reviews and approval of release for flight hardware, qualification reports, and flight decisions
- Experience developing requirement and verification sets, writing test plans, and test reports
- Experience with end-to-end development including requirements, detailed design, qualification, production, and acceptance testing
- Python for data manipulation and post-processing
- Hands-on integration and testing experience with NI equipment and software
- GD&T and engineering drawings experience
- Experience testing and troubleshooting flight hardware
- Master's or PhD in engineering
Compensation and Benefits
Base salary: $82,000 to $123,000 USD. Total compensation including equity: $89,000 to $125,000 USD. Equity grant value is designed around function, level, and experience; realized value depends on vesting and stock performance.
Benefits include company stock with an Employee Stock Purchase Program offering 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) with company match, subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers where available, discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, and 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.