Project 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!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab Space Systems began with the CAPSTONE mission for NASA’s Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique lunar orbit. We were the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing. Next, we're heading to Mars for a groundbreaking mission with UC Berkeley and NASA.

Our capabilities range from bespoke satellites for complex missions to full constellations, uniquely supported by our in-house satellite component manufacturing. This allows us to innovate rapidly and meet challenging demands. The Space Systems team takes on the most challenging missions, and we’re just getting started.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

Join Rocket Lab's dynamic and rapidly growing Space Systems team, where you'll work alongside dedicated professionals to push the boundaries of what's possible. As a Project Engineer, you'll take the lead on the technical aspects of manufacturing and production, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. You'll bridge the gap between Design Engineering and Manufacturing, collaborating closely with various departments to keep projects on schedule and implement engineering changes for improved efficiency.

In this role, you'll be instrumental in developing our Ground Systems infrastructure, managing the engineering and technical disciplines of ongoing projects, and ensuring the successful execution of all project elements. Your ability to handle multiple cross-disciplinary projects with excellent project management, communication, and supervision skills will be crucial.

We're looking for someone who is highly action-oriented and able to move at pace while fostering a collaborative environment to build alliances and keep team members engaged. Strong organizational, time management, leadership, and decision-making skills are essential, along with a solid understanding of engineering change processes. Analytical skills and innovative approaches are welcomed and highly valued.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Mechatronics or Electrical Engineering (or related)
• 3+ years’ experience as an engineer, ideally in aerospace
• Hands-on technical experience with complex electro-mechanical systems/assemblies
• Can-do attitude and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes
• Strong communicator, with proven ability to write clear and concise technical documentation

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Knowledge of project management, production interface and software systems such as JIRA, Team Center and ERP/MRP systems
• Knowledge of production quality metrics
• Hands-on experience with composite assemblies, fluid components, pressure vessels, & harnessing

If the above sounds like you apply now!

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at

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