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.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space. You’ll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission. Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
Electron GNC Engineers are responsible for the design, implementation, testing, and application of Guidance, Navigation, and Control systems used in the operation and production of the Electron rocket. You take ownership of missions seeing them from initial concept through to launch and get responsibility for improving tooling that enables us to reliably deliver launches. This includes mission design, algorithm development, trajectory optimization, auto-sequence planning, Monte Carlo analysis, configuration management, launch operations, data analysis, physical systems modelling, and many more. GNC takes pride in delivering 100% mission success, on time.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assisting with trajectory optimization/design for launch vehicle orbital missions.
- Assisting with auto sequence design (maneuvers, telemetry, ground station contacts), implementation and verification for orbital flight, stack tests and wet dress rehearsals
- Analysis and missionization of optimized 3DOF trajectories for implementation in 6DOF and flight scenarios
- Monte-Carlo analysis pre-flight, launch day and post-flight analysis
- Design and verification of spacecraft separation sequences and dynamics
- Assisting with all areas of GNC development and maintenance for Electron and HASTE
- Core GNC R&D (Guidance, Navigation, Control, Trajectory Design)
- Vehicle modelling / prediction and/or configuration control
- 6DOF simulator design and development
- Launch and HITL operations
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master’s, bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical, Mechanical, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering or equivalent qualification
- Experience developing in C/C++
- Experience developing in Python or MATLAB
- A thorough theoretical and/or practical understanding of rigid and/or flexible body dynamics, particularly 6DOF rocket dynamics
- Understanding of orbital mechanics and/or closed-loop control systems
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with simulation and/or embedded software development for UAVs, rockets, spacecraft, or robotics
- Experience with launch vehicle or spacecraft dynamics and
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.
