Ground Systems Mechanical Engineer I/II

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company focused on providing responsive launch solutions, designing and manufacturing spacecraft, satellite components, and more. Their mission revolves around expanding access to space, supporting key global initiatives such as scientific exploration, climate change mitigation, national security, and new technological demonstrations. Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is the second-most launched U.S. rocket each year, having deployed over 230 satellites into orbit. They are also developing the Neutron reusable medium-lift launch vehicle. Their Space Systems division designs satellites and components, including those selected for NASA Moon and Mars missions and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

Join the Ground Systems Engineering team to contribute directly to the creation of infrastructure supporting Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, covering everything from manufacturing floors to launch operations. This role offers hands-on experience with actual hardware, launch pads, and missions. It suits motivated early-career engineers who are eager to learn quickly, take initiative, and contribute toward top-tier launch systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to determine project requirements.
• Design mechanical systems, including vehicle interfaces, structures, mechanisms, and fluid systems.
• Create detailed 2D and 3D CAD models.
• Develop schematics, process diagrams such as P&IDs, and bills of materials.
• Conduct design trade studies ensuring adherence to engineering standards.
• Partner with vendors and internal production to refine designs for manufacturing efficiency.
• Engage in risk assessments, hazard studies, and failure mode analyses (FMEAs).
• Produce essential technical documentation like manuals, procedures, and work instructions.
• Support component and system-level test plan development and implementation.
• Design and upkeep test equipment.
• Assist in analyzing post-test and post-flight data.
• Maintain interface control documents between launch vehicles and ground systems.
• Assist operational teams in system readiness; support installation, commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and launch activities both onsite and remotely.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or CAD Engineering, or equivalent qualification.
• Experience in structural design and industrial equipment.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and schematics.
• Strong communication abilities and a teamwork-oriented mindset.
• Comfort working in a dynamic, hands-on environment.

Preferred Experience

• Background in launch pad systems or related sectors such as oil & gas, mining, or process engineering.
• Familiarity with fluid system design.
• Experience using NX, Teamcenter, SolidWorks, or EPDM software.
• Knowledge of standards including ASME, ASTM, AS/NZS, or NASA ground systems.
• Over one year of engineering design experience in aerospace or industrial fields.

Why You'll Excel

• You take full responsibility for your work and complete tasks thoroughly.
• You are inquisitive, proactive, and constantly seeking ways to contribute.
• You are eager to gain knowledge, open to feedback, and building strong engineering judgment.
• You prioritize safety, collaboration, and executing tasks properly.

Additional Information

• Domestic and international travel may be required.
• Strict adherence to health, safety, and company policies is mandatory.
• U.S. applicants must meet specific citizenship or authorization requirements due to ITAR regulations.
• New Zealand candidates will undergo background and nationality checks to comply with ITAR.