Senior Spacecraft Systems 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 started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA’s Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we’re going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.

We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we’re unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them, and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we’re only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible – together.

SENIOR SPACECRAFT SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's NZ headquarters in Auckland, NZ, the Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer follows the entire lifecycle of the mission. Starting with conceptual design, subsystems sizing and requirements definition. Followed by the implementation phase where you will oversee the integration and test campaigns for the whole spacecraft, working across multidisciplinary teams to ready the Spacecraft for flight. Finally, once you have deemed the spacecraft ready for flight, you will be overseeing the launch campaign activities and supporting the mission operations as the spacecraft expert, ensuring mission success for Rocket Lab and its customers.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Define mission and system requirements to support mission objectives
• Develop technical budgets and systems analysis to ensure vehicle performance and reliability
• Design spacecraft architectures
• Define, Implement, and carry out subsystem and system level test plans and procedures for requirements verification and validation
• Guide technicians and determine integration flow for optimal spacecraft build and assembly
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop end-to-end solutions, for example
  • Propulsion – All our spacecraft are equipped with advanced propulsion systems for delta-V capabilities, you will work closely with our fabulous propulsion team to integrate this capability into the spacecraft design
  • Vehicle design – Our creative design team will require your input to ensure all requirements are being met, and come up with new ways to squeeze a spacecraft onto a small rocket
  • GNC – Work with our one-in-a-million GNC team to integrate advanced sensors and actuators to perform state-of-the art maneuvers on orbit
• Provide program support to team leads and program managers and be a key technical interface between the Auckland, NZ and Long Beach, USA engineering teams

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Proven experience (5+ years) specifically on aerospace/satellite development programs, which can be anywhere from initial design through on-orbit operations
• Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including attitude determination and control, spacecraft electrical power systems, space-ground communications, on-orbit command and data handling, and thermal control.
• Thorough understanding of the space environment, materials selection, radiation effects, degradation factors etc.
• Experience testing electrical subsystems and assemblies
• Proficiency in systems engineering tools (e.g JAMA), simulation software (e.g. Simulink, STK) and programming languages (e.g. Python, Matlab)
• Experience with development and execution of environmental testing, such as thermal vacuum, EMI, or random vibration testing
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail and a can-do attitude
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with a passion for space exploration and innovation

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Graduate degree in Aerospace Engineering or Systems Engineering
• Experience leading teams
• Experience designing and building harnesses for flight or test
• Experience with satellite operations on orbit
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing

ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology 
• Relocation support and visa sponsorship
• An employee stock purchase program 
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career 
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks 
• Rocket Lab merchandise - T-shirts, mission patches etc. 
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross 
• Additional parental leave entitlements 
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year 

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