Mechanical Engineer II/Senior

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate-change mitigation, national security, and new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered over 230 satellites to orbit. We are also developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems division designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars, and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

About the role

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead the development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from concept through production on aggressive timelines. This facility specializes in manufacturing satellite separation mechanisms. The position may be filled at either the Mechanical Engineer II or Senior Mechanical Engineer I level.

Responsibilities

• Lead schedule-aggressive development of space mechanisms from concept through implementation as the responsible engineer
• Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calculations and FEA
• Drive requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS, and ICDs
• Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
• Support incremental improvements to the development team’s engineering approach and best practices
• Generate technical reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and external partners
• Support environmental verification testing by assisting or leading test requirements, procedures, and execution
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure functionality across system interfaces and for end users
• Own or significantly contribute to development schedules, project milestone reviews, and technical interchange meetings
• Support business development proposals and custom Statements of Work (SOWs)
• Travel or work off-site at suppliers, customers, or other Rocket Lab locations (~10%)
• Mentor other engineers (Senior Mechanical Engineer I level only)

Requirements

Mechanical Engineer II

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• 2+ years of experience in aerospace or similar mechanical development
• Proficiency in CAD and FEA
• Experience adapting to changing priorities and resolving blockers
• Experience working on complex projects across organizational teams

Senior Mechanical Engineer I

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical development, with 2+ years in aerospace
• Proficiency in CAD and FEA
• Thorough understanding of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests, and requirements
• Experience adapting to changing priorities and resolving blockers
• Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
• Experience designing aerospace mechanisms
• Strong task management, communication, and problem-solving skills

Work Environment

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Pay

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $87,000 USD – $125,000 USD. Level and base salary will be determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Company equity
• Top-tier medical HMO, PPO, and a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option
• Dental and vision coverage
• 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
• Paid parental leave
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Discounted employee stock purchase program
• Flexible schedule
• Free breakfast and lunch catered twice per week
• Free snacks and drinks

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.