About the role
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
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 space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.
Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
NEUTRON
Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.
STRUCTURAL ANALYST
As a Structural Analyst you will work directly with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to develop and validate primary and secondary composite structures for the Neutron launch vehicle: owning your designs from concept to completion. This role is based in Auckland, New Zealand. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
- Support the analysis of primary and secondary structures, including composites and metallic components, and integrated structural assemblies
- Build, run, and post-process FE models to calculate design responses and margins to static, dynamic, and thermal loads
- Collaborate with design engineers to develop concepts, and manufacturing engineers to identify suitable materials, and define pragmatic build processes
- Work alongside test engineers to define test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process test data against analytical predictions
- Develop and document structural analysis methods
- Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed at pace
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- A degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar field
- 5+ years’ experience performing structural analysis of composite components for high performance applications
- Strong understanding of composites engineering fundamentals (mechanics of materials, classical lamination theory, material property characterization, design best practices, analysis methods, and manufacturing processes)
- Demonstrated expertise with one or more industry standard structural FEA packages: NASTRAN (FEMAP), ANSYS, Abaqus, Optistruct/Hyperworks etc.
- Experience with structural testing of composite components or assemblies
- Experience supporting composite manufacture and prototyping
- The ability to work to deadlines within a high-pressure environment
- Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with defect and damage tolerance assessment of composite structures including the disposition of hardware non-conformances
Aplyr's read
Rocket Lab is a dynamic force in aerospace, attracting engineers and innovators passionate about revolutionizing small satellite launches with cost-effective solutions.
What's promising
- •Rocket Lab offers significant impact opportunities in the small satellite market.
- •The company is known for its cost-effective and reliable launch services.
- •It provides a platform for engineers to innovate in aerospace technology.
What to watch
- •The competitive aerospace industry poses constant innovation challenges.
- •Reliance on small satellite market growth may limit diversification.
- •High technical demands require specialized skills, potentially limiting applicant pool.
Why Rocket Lab
- •Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is tailored for small payloads, differentiating it from larger competitors.
- •The company has a proven track record with frequent successful launches.
- •Its focus on cost efficiency sets it apart in the aerospace sector.
Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is a private aerospace manufacturer and small satellite launch service provider. They focus on providing cost-effective and reliable access to space for small payloads, significantly impacting the growing small satellite market.
