Thermofluids Analyst II

About Rocket Lab and the Role

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise offering launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite components, and more. It supports critical global missions including scientific discovery, Earth monitoring, climate change mitigation, national security, and advanced technology demonstrations. Their Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites. The company is currently developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for deploying larger satellite constellations, alongside an extensive line of spacecraft and components, including those destined for NASA missions and the James Webb Space Telescope.

The Thermofluids Analyst II position is within Rocket Lab’s integrated analysis team, tasked with advancing the Neutron and Electron rockets by applying modeling and simulation expertise to solve complex problems related to dynamics, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. Analysts employ CFD simulations, develop modeling code, and analyze flight data to optimize vehicle performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct and validate CFD analysis of vehicle fluid systems covering compressible and incompressible flows.
• Perform heat transfer simulations including conduction, convection, radiation, and integrated thermal analyses of spacecraft components.
• Analyze thermofluid aspects of primary and secondary vehicle systems through modeling, numerical analysis, material selection, trade studies, and performance optimization.
• Collaborate closely with design and test engineers to refine designs, establish testing requirements, and ensure design margins are met.
• Process and interpret ground and flight test data to verify component performance, identify anomalies and sensor issues, and enhance vehicles' safety margins.
• Peer review analysis work, document methodologies thoroughly, and standardize procedures aligning with industry best practices.
• Develop and enhance models related to propellant dynamics, such as temperature effects, gas rejection, and control mechanisms.
• Contribute to the automation and improvement of test and flight data review processes.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 3 to 5 years of relevant industry experience preferably in aerospace, automotive, or marine sectors.
• In-depth understanding of heat transfer, electronics, internal flow, and aerodynamics principles.
• Experience with fluid engineering, including pressure losses, valve function, and sensor integration.
• Proficiency using industry-standard CFD software such as Fluent, CFX, or STAR-CCM+.
• Strong capabilities in Python programming and associated scientific libraries like numpy, pandas, scipy, and matplotlib.
• Experience with thermal modeling of components and systems.
• Knowledge of experimental testing methods, sensor applications, and data analysis for various sensors including thermocouples, pressure transducers, and accelerometers.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering teams.

Preferred but Not Required

• Background in dynamic thermofluid systems such as propellant slosh, flow instabilities, and pogo oscillations.
• Experience in propellant level sensing, control approaches, pumps, pressurization, and cryogenics.
• Expertise in thermodynamics of two-phase, cryogenic, or refrigeration systems.
• Competency in compressible gas modeling of pressure vessels and related systems.
• Familiarity with space thermal environments and thermal protection system design.
• Knowledge of HVAC design or analysis.
• Experience with thermal modeling software such as Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST.
• Familiarity with CAD and PDM software for model interrogation and analysis preparation.
• Python package development experience including version control and deployment.
• Understanding of relevant aerospace and government standards (e.g., MIL-STD-1540, GSFC-STD-7000, ECSS-E-HB-32, NASA-STD-5001).

Additional Information and Compliance

Applicants working in U.S. offices must comply with ITAR regulations requiring U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or appropriate authorizations. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to inclusive and discrimination-free hiring practices. Applicants needing accommodations during the application or interview process in the U.S. may contact a dedicated resource.

For applicants to New Zealand offices, security checks including nationality verification are mandatory to comply with ITAR regulations. Employment eligibility includes citizenship from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO member countries, or related dual nationality stipulations.