Ground Systems Engineer II - Mechanical
Confirmed live in the last 24 hours
Rocket Lab
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.
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the worlds most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.
GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II – MECHANICAL
As an Engineer with our Ground Systems Engineering Mechanical team, you will be responsible for the design, build, testing and commissioning of launch range and test cell structures, mechanisms and fluid systems. This includes all equipment used to handle and interface with the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles from the moment they leave our production facilities until they are on orbit.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
- Design systems including launch vehicle transporters, erectors and launchers, spacecraft-handling equipment, and ground-support tooling.
- Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software.
- Perform system sizing and analysis using hand calculations and numerical methods.
- Generate and maintain schematics of mechanical systems (e.g., hydraulic schematics, P&IDs, connection diagrams).
- Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs).
- Collaborate with suppliers and internal engineering teams.
- Support certification of launch pad systems where applicable.
- Contribute to maintenance-program development.
- Demonstrate hands-on involvement during build phases; comfortable working in the field as needed.
Operations Support
- Collaborate with test and operations teams to ensure systems remain operational.
- Support pad technicians, both remotely and on site - during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting.
- Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces.
- Design, develop and maintain test equipment.
- Conduct post-flight and post-test data analysis to identify trends and improvements.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
Essential
- Mechanical or structural engineering degree (or equivalent).
- 2+ years’ experience in engineering design, testing, and/or operations within aerospace or industrial sectors.
- Proficiency with 3D CAD and PLM software (e.g., SolidWorks & EPDM).
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, autonomous environment.
- Strong communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships.
Desirable
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