Senior Dynamics Engineer

Overview

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise that offers responsive launch services alongside spacecraft design, manufacturing, and satellite components. Their mission is to broaden space accessibility. Their Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched US rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites. The upcoming Neutron rocket aims to provide medium-lift, reusable launch capabilities for major constellation deployments. The Space Systems division creates satellites and components supporting NASA missions to the Moon, Mars, and the James Webb Space Telescope.

The Neutron program involves designing, testing, and deployment of the large Neutron rocket and associated launch/test facilities across the US, presenting a chance to partake in launching a novel rocket.

Role Summary

The Senior Dynamics Engineer will lead analysis, design validation, and enhancements related to vehicle load predictions and environmental effects for different components. Tasks include supporting test and qualification campaigns, defining instrumentation requirements, conducting detailed simulations and physics-oriented analyses, and establishing technical methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret static and dynamic test and flight data from the vehicle.
• Select appropriate sensors including accelerometers, strain gauges, and thermocouples.
• Manage data acquisition and validate collected data.
• Determine environmental conditions such as random vibration, shock, quasi-static, acoustic, pressure, and thermal impacts.
• Conduct dynamic simulations including modal, acoustic, random vibration, sine harmonic, and transient analyses.
• Define test requirements and assist with vehicle subsystem testing.
• Execute and document structural analyses using finite element models for primary and secondary vehicle structures.
• Perform finite element model verification and validation, material selection, trade-off studies, and mass optimization.
• Implement new theoretical approaches and tools, standardizing best practices in vehicle dynamics and load analysis.
• Conduct thorough peer reviews of engineering analyses.
• Mentor junior engineering staff as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years' professional experience, preferably within aerospace, automotive, or marine sectors.
• Strong physics-based problem-solving orientation.
• Hands-on experience with vibration and shock testing methodologies.
• Skill in selecting sensors and post-processing data from accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples, and similar devices.
• Familiarity with static and dynamic structural testing methods including modal characterization, acoustic, random vibration, sine burst, force notching, shock, and fixture evaluations.
• Proficiency in engineering programming and data analysis, especially Python.
• Experience with finite element modeling and structural analysis software such as Femap/NX Nastran, Simcenter/NX Nastran, Abaqus, or Optistruct/Hyperworks.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within teams.
• Excellent communication to maintain effective professional relationships.

Desirable Skills

• Expertise in vibroacoustic modeling techniques.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes including traditional machining and additive manufacturing.
• Experience working with NX CAD and Teamcenter software.

Work Environment and Culture

Rocket Lab values innovation, determination, and cooperation. Employees face challenging deadlines and high-pressure environments, thriving on teamwork and a focus on delivering results. The company promotes an inclusive culture where egos are set aside in favor of collective success.

Important Candidate Information

US Office Applicants: Compliance with US Government export rules such as ITAR requires employees to be US citizens, lawful permanent residents, or eligible for required authorizations from US authorities.

New Zealand Office Applicants: Background checks including nationality verification will be conducted in accordance with US ITAR regulations. Eligible candidates must hold citizenship from accepted countries (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU, NATO member states) without ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.

Rocket Lab commits to equal employment opportunity, barring discrimination based on various protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and interview process for those with disabilities.