Senior Space Systems Structural Analyst

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Auckland, NZ

On-site

Posted February 26, 2026

Job Description

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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST

Join a world-class team designing the future of spaceflight.

Rocket Lab’s Structural & Mechanical Systems team is at the forefront of spacecraft innovation. We drive the design, development, and performance of spacecraft structures, Photon platforms, and mission-critical payload systems. Working hand-in-hand with cross-functional engineering teams and Production, we bring bold concepts to life—from initial design to launch-ready hardware.

As a Senior Structural Analyst, you’ll play a key role in shaping the structural integrity and performance of our spacecraft. Your work will directly influence the success of space missions, supporting everything from simulation and testing to flight analysis and qualification.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Lead structural analysis of spacecraft and platform components, including composites and metallic structures.
Develop and refine finite element models to assess structural performance under static, dynamic, and thermal loads.
Analyse flight and test data to define structural environments and validate design margins.
Define test requirements, support test execution, and conduct post-processing of structural test data.
Specify and review instrumentation (e.g., strain gauges, accelerometers, thermocouples) for flight and ground testing.
Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure structural solutions are practical and producible.
Identify risks, recommend mitigation strategies, and drive continuous structural improvement initiatives.
Mentor and support junior engineers in technical development and analysis methodologies.
Contribute to the development of documentation, data structures, and processes to support manufacturing and performance improvements.
Champion structural excellence from concept development through integration and launch.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Structural Engineering (or related field).
Extensive experience in structural analysis of aerospace or high-performance systems.
Strong proficiency in finite element analysis (

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