Development Engineer - Neutron

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the N...

Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (propellant tanks, interstages, fairings), mechanical (stage separation, aerodynamic control), fluid (pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal systems. The fluids‑focused Development Engineer II specializa...

Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD;  
Produce detailed design elements including composite inserts, laminates, joint details, metallic interfaces, and secondary structural elements;
Prepare drawing packages & laminate books, ensuring manufacturability is considered throughout the design process;
Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies
Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc 
Defining design requirements  
Designing prototype parts  
Improving design processes  
Proactively addressing quality issues as they arise 

Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification 
3-5 years designing high performance mechanical systems
Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Fibersim (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements 
Strong understanding of composites engineering fundamentals (mechanics of materials, classical lamination theory, material property characterization, design best practices, analysis methods, and manufacturing processes)
Experience in one of the following domain areas:
Cryogenic systems
Pressurized systems 
Mechanical moving assemblies 
Fluid Systems
Hands-on composites manufacturing experience