Lead, Propulsion Test Engineer

About the Role

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Manager of the team of engineers and technicians who run liquid rocket engine propulsion tests
• Generate and execute detailed test procedures
• Review and interpret test data for facility health and engine performance
• Specify and procure components and propellants
• Manage vendors and subcontractors
• Plan and oversee facility schedule
• Support requirements development in conjunction with the propulsion design team to establish needs for test sequencing
• Establish requirements for new facility capability
• Contribute to configuration management, quality, cost, and process control
• Be an advocate for safety of the test team and the test stand operations

Qualifications

• 5+ years industry experience
• Engineering degree
• Experience from previous employment that meets engineering experience title and skills
• Demonstrated skills within the rocket propulsion industry where applicable to deliver required company outcomes
• Proven track record of leading a team to deliver multiple complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation
• Broad experience in propulsion testing and operations that may include one or more of the following:
  • Structural design and analysis
  • Cryogenics systems design
  • High pressure gas systems design
  • High fidelity analytical modelling including dynamic fluid models

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in an engineering discipline
• Direct experience with liquid natural gas or liquid methane as a rocket propellant
• Demonstrated excellence in leading a test program from concept to completion
• Background of technical expertise in sub-component to full flight system testing
• Software development for data acquisition and control systems
• Working knowledge of complex IT systems associated with propulsion testing

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.