Senior Propulsion Engineer I

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...

As Senior Propulsion Engineer I, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. You will take ownership of subsystems and engine operation, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness. You will ex...

This role demands technical expertise, strong autonomy, and the ability to align teams and projects to achieve program goals. Principal Engineers will additionally drive value to teams outside their group, influencing cross-functional efforts and contributing to the broader success of the Neutron program.

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 each part of the engine lifecycle.

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
5+ 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.
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.

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO