Development Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB:

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (i.e. Propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (i.e. stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid (i.e. pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal (i.e. thermal protection) systems.

This role will work directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic and composites components & assemblies and to perform development & qualification tests, refine designs, and ensure Neutron’s materials, components, and assemblies meet their functional and performance requirements. This role requires close work with more experienced engineers to deliver project contribution to the expectations of the company.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Engineering, Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronic, Electrical or related field

• 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

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 1+ years designing high-performance mechanical systems in one of the following domain areas:

o Cryogenic systems

o Pressurised systems

o Mechanical moving assemblies

o Fluid Systems

• Hands-on composites manufacturing experience

• Hands-on metallic fabrication experience

Wage dependent upon experience: NZD$ 70,000 - NZD $101,000

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.