Structural Analyst I/II

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a space systems and launch company that provides launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite parts, and related capabilities to help expand access to space. Its rockets and satellites support a wide range of missions, including science, Earth observation, climate-focused work, national security, and technology demonstrations.

The Electron rocket has become one of the most frequently launched U.S. rockets each year and has placed more than 230 satellites into orbit. At the same time, the company is developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle designed for larger constellation deployments. Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division also builds satellites, payloads, and components, including hardware selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars as well as parts used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

The company emphasizes direct execution and a hands-on approach.

Role Overview

This Auckland-based structural analysis role sits within the Analysis team and supports the validation, refinement, and improvement of Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles, space systems, and space components. The position contributes to challenging engineering work with strong technical impact across current and future missions.

What You’ll Do

• Evaluate static and dynamic ground-test and flight data, including sensor choice, data validation, and the effects of vibration, shock, acoustics, and thermal environments.
• Carry out and document structural assessments for launch vehicle hardware, including finite element model checks, material selection, trade studies, and mass optimization.
• Run structural and dynamic simulations such as static, modal, vibration, buckling, and thermal analyses, while working with design and test teams to improve designs and maintain structural margin.
• Define test needs, assist with subsystem and component testing, and drive technical work across multiple teams and disciplines.
• Introduce new tools, define effective working methods, and mentor teammates on technical topics and internal systems.
• Consistently develop strong engineering solutions and help set high standards for the team.

Required Qualifications

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• 1 to 3 years of professional experience, preferably in aerospace, automotive, or marine sectors.
• A strong problem-solving style grounded in physics and engineering fundamentals.
• Deep understanding of structural mechanics.
• Hands-on experience with one or more industry-standard structural FEA tools such as ANSYS, Nastran, Abaqus, or Optistruct/Hyperworks.
• Experience with NX CAD and/or Teamcenter, or similar tools, especially for model review and defeaturing for analysis work.
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods such as conventional machining and additive manufacturing.
• Ability to predict component life and structural margins accurately, including ductile metal failure, fatigue, and fracture.
• Strong background in vibroacoustic modelling and analysis.
• Experience selecting sensors and interpreting post-test data such as accelerometer, strain gauge, and thermocouple readings.
• Knowledge of structural test techniques such as modal correlation, random vibration, sine burst, equivalent sine input, force notching, shock, and fixture evaluation.
• Advanced engineering programming ability, particularly in Python.
• Proven project and programme management experience, including requirements tracking, schedule control, cross-functional coordination, technical reviews, and communication with executives and customers.
• Ability to adapt to shifting deadlines in a demanding environment.
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build productive working relationships with engineers and colleagues.

Nice-to-Have Experience

• Structural analysis experience with composites, including laminate design, joint design, materials characterization, and environmental effects.
• Exposure to linear and non-linear buckling analysis, especially shell buckling.
• Experience with acoustic analysis and testing.
• Experience modelling propellant dynamics and mitigation methods such as slosh and pogo.
• Experience with coupled loads analysis.
• Familiarity with non-linear material simulation, including metal plasticity, elastomers, and adhesive joints.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards such as MIL-STD-1540, GSFC-STD-7000, ECSS-E-HB-32, and NASA-STD-5001.

Work Style and Expectations

The team operates in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment where teamwork, resilience, and execution matter. The culture values practical problem solving, strong collaboration, humility, and a willingness to take on difficult tasks. Tight deadlines, pressure, and continuous improvement are part of the role.

Important Information for U.S. Candidates

For positions in U.S. offices, export control rules apply under ITAR and related U.S. government regulations. Employment may require U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee or asylum status, or eligibility to obtain the required authorizations.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected status.

Applicants in the United States who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact the designated accommodation resource for disability-related assistance. Messages outside that purpose will not be considered.

Important Information for New Zealand Candidates

For New Zealand-based employment, background screening will be completed before any offer is made. These checks include nationality verification, because access to certain equipment and data is regulated under U.S. ITAR rules.

Eligibility for this role may be restricted if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO member country, or if you have ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.