Senior Vibrations Engineer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company offering end-to-end space services from launch operations to spacecraft design, manufacturing, and satellite components. Their technology supports critical space missions in scientific discovery, climate action, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations. The Electron rocket is one of the most frequently launched U.S. rockets, having deployed over 230 satellites. Rocket Lab is advancing its portfolio with the upcoming Neutron medium-lift reusable rocket and the design of satellites supporting NASA's Moon and Mars missions and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview - Senior Vibrations Engineer

Joining the Neutron team, you will play a key role in the analysis, verification, and enhancement of vibration-related systems. Your responsibilities will include predicting loads and environmental conditions on various vehicle parts, supporting validation tests, and specifying instrumentation placements, while performing advanced physics-based simulations and establishing analytical methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze static and dynamic testing and flight data to determine vehicle environmental loads.
• Select and validate sensors such as accelerometers, strain gauges, and thermocouples.
• Conduct various dynamic simulations including modal, acoustic, random vibration, sine harmonic, and transient analyses.
• Define test protocols and directly aid in subsystem testing and qualification.
• Perform comprehensive structural analyses including finite element model validation, material selection, trade-off assessments, and mass optimization.
• Implement new theories and best practices in dynamics and load assessment within the team.
• Conduct peer reviews and mentor junior engineers.

Required Qualifications

• Over 7 years of professional experience, preferably in aerospace, automotive, or marine sectors.
• Strong physics-based problem-solving skills.
• Proven expertise in vibration and shock testing methodologies.
• Experience in sensor selection and data analysis/post-processing for vibration-related devices.
• Familiarity with static and dynamic test techniques such as modal characterization, acoustic testing, random vibration, sine burst, force notching, shock, and fixture evaluation.
• Proficiency in engineering programming and data analysis, notably in Python.
• Experience with finite element analysis using packages like Femap/NX Nastran, Simcenter/NX Nastran, Abaqus, or Optistruct/Hyperworks.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills for effective teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.

Desirable Qualifications

• Expertise in vibroacoustic modeling.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes including conventional machining and additive manufacturing.
• Experience with NX CAD and Teamcenter software.

Culture and Work Environment

Rocket Lab fosters a culture of innovation, determination, and collaboration, where challenging problems are tackled with resourcefulness and a team-first attitude. Individuals thrive in fast-paced environments, working toward ambitious goals to unlock space potential for Earth's benefit.

Important Candidate Information

For U.S. Applicants: Compliance with U.S. export regulations requires employees to be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or meet special authorization criteria under ITAR.

For New Zealand Applicants: Employment is subject to security checks and nationality eligibility due to ITAR regulations. Eligible nationalities include Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU countries, NATO members, with some dual citizenships potentially restricting eligibility.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Rocket Lab is committed to equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on any protected characteristics in accordance with applicable laws. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request.