Mechanical Engineer II

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separati...

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Develop...

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab’s commitme...

Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
Support constant incremental improvements to the development team’s engineering approach and best practices
Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
Mentor other engineers
Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
2+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
CAD and FEA proficiency
Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams
MS in relevant engineering field
Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
Strong task management, communication and problem solving skills
Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO