About the Job
Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our e...
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...
Key Responsibilities
Lead complex thermofluids analysis for Rocket Lab's launch vehicles and space systems, including CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic aerodynamic flows, internal fluid systems (compressible and incompressible flow), and heat transfer analysis (conduction, convection, and radiation)
Drive cross-functional collaboration by working closely with design and test engineers to iterate design concepts, process flight and ground test data to validate vehicle performance, and identify anomalies using first principles physics and data analysis
Shape technical direction by conducting peer reviews, establishing analysis methodology, documenting best practices, and producing qualification test levels while coordinating knowledge sharing across global teams
Mentor and develop the team by coaching junior analysts on technical best practices, creating training opportunities, establishing performance management plans, and serving as a role model for professional behavior and effective team discussions
Required Skills & Abilities
Degree (Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar) with 5+ years of industry experience from Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors, bringing a strong physics and first principles approach to problem-solving
Expert-level CFD and thermal modeling skills with hands-on experience using industry-standard packages (Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST) and proven ability to validate and document complex analyses
Strong technical toolkit including proficiency with NX CAD/Teamcenter (or comparable packages), sensor selection and data post-processing, and engineering programming expertise in Python (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib)
Proven execution and communication abilities with demonstrated success delivering results under changing deadlines in high-pressure environments, building strong cross-functional relationships, and communicating effectively through written documents and presentations
Structural analysis background with familiarity in structural mechanics and analysis techniques to complement thermofluids expertise and enable broader problem-solving capabilities
Industry standards knowledge including experience with MIL-STD-1540, GSFC-STD-7000, ECSS-E-HB-32, NASA-STD-5001, or similar aerospace qualification standards
Manufacturing process understanding with familiarity in conventional machining and additive manufacturing to inform design-for-manufacturability decisions
Mentoring experience with a track record of developing junior engineers and supporting their technical growth through training, on-the-job coaching, and career development
