Flight Analysis Engineer - Electron Operations

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company providing end-to-end solutions including responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacture, payloads, and satellite components. Our technologies support significant space missions globally involving scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate change mitigation, national security, and innovative technological demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket is distinguished as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having delivered over 230 satellites into orbit. We are also developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle designed for larger constellation deployments. Additionally, our Space Systems division creates satellites, payloads, and components used in major space missions such as NASA's Moon and Mars projects and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Neutron Project

The Neutron team is tasked with delivering a new large rocket, including its launch and test facilities. Activities encompass designing and testing structural components, powering the Archimedes engines, and establishing launch pads and testing sites across the U.S. Joining this team gives you the chance to be a pioneer in launching a new large rocket.

Role Overview

As a Flight Analysis Engineer focused on Electron operations, you will lead mission and flight safety analyses, vehicle assessment, and interdepartmental collaboration. Support for Neutron analysis may also be required. The team develops software tools, analytical methodologies, and detailed reporting for flight safety, launch readiness, and satellite operations relevant to Electron and Neutron missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Create, maintain, and employ flight safety analysis tools and methods for Electron vehicle operations, including trajectory calculations, debris and re-entry evaluations, and risk analyses using Python and C++ with 6 DoF/3 DoF simulations.
• Handle large datasets to build statistical models estimating failure probabilities; aim to enhance analytical efficiency, cost-effectiveness and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Assist launch operations by compiling risk data, designing operator graphical interfaces, supporting console activities during launch campaigns, and verifying launch range systems.
• Develop and update flight safety documentation such as data packages, licensing materials, standard operating procedures, and records of analytical methods and outcomes.

Required Qualifications

• Proficient programming skills, particularly in Python.
• Minimum 3 years experience in engineering analysis including numerical modeling, simulation, statistics, or multi-physics domains.
• Solid understanding of launch vehicle flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, and guidance, navigation & control (GNC) concepts.
• Familiar with configuration management and version control processes.
• Strong technical writing abilities; familiarity with LaTeX is advantageous.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience preparing various flight safety documentation including data packages, compliance matrices, reports and Failure Mode Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA).
• Knowledge of launch vehicle flight safety programs.

Important Information

Rocket Lab fosters a collaborative environment requiring commitment, innovation, resilience, and teamwork to overcome demanding challenges and meet tight deadlines.

Location-Specific Compliance

For U.S.-based positions: Applicants must comply with U.S. Government space technology export laws (ITAR), requiring citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or equivalent authorization.

For New Zealand-based applicants: Background and nationality checks will be conducted to comply with ITAR regulations. Eligibility may be limited to citizens of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, NATO members, or hold appropriate nationality without disqualifying dual citizenship.