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Overview
Mid-Level

Propulsion Design Engineer II / Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Long Beach, CA
On-site
Posted March 12, 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. 

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! 

PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER II / SENIOR PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER I 

Based out of Rocket Lab's our headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Propulsion Design Engineer is responsible for the design of engine components (combustion chambers, turbo machinery, engine layout, etc.) for the Archimedes Engine. In this role you’ll have the opportunity to design, analyze and build hardware. You will support the Neutron and Archimedes teams with deliverables required to facilitate engine development and advance the program forward. 

Please note: this position can be hired at the Propulsion Design Engineer II or Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I level.  

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

  • Work with technical subject matter experts to design engine systems to meet performance, quality and manufacturability requirements.
  • Develop and own mechanical design solutions for propulsion systems.
  • Perform trade studies and design reviews with analysts, manufacturing engineers and subject matter experts from concept to production.
  • Work with internal and external fabrication teams to bring hardware from design to fruition 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER II:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in relevant engineering field.
  • Strong foundation in heat transfer, fluids and structural mechanics.
  • Proficiency in finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench or similar packages.
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.
  • Fundamental understanding of design for manufacturing and GD&T principles. 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER I:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field 
  • 5+ years of experience in relevant engineering field.
  • Strong foundation in heat
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