Senior Ground Systems Engineer - Mechanical

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components. Our mission is to expand access to space for scientific, environmental, defense, and technological projects. The Electron rocket is among the most frequently launched U.S. rockets, having deployed over 230 satellites. We are developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle, while our Space Systems division produces satellites and spacecraft supporting NASA missions and other advanced projects.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer with mechanical expertise to join our team. The role involves designing, constructing, testing, and commissioning essential ground support systems for Electron and Neutron rockets. This includes managing structures, mechanisms, and fluid systems that must operate reliably under extreme vibration and hazardous conditions.

Core Responsibilities

• Design launch support equipment such as transporters, erectors, ground tooling, and spacecraft handling devices.
• Develop fluid and cryogenic systems emphasizing both safety and performance.
• Conduct structural analyses and design for environments with high vibration and hazards.
• Create 2D and 3D CAD models using software like SolidWorks and NX.
• Perform system sizing and analysis via calculations and numerical techniques.
• Maintain detailed Bills of Materials and manage interface control documentation.
• Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure specifications are met.
• Support test and operations teams to guarantee system readiness and mission compliance.
• Assist installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting onsite and remotely.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans to validate performance and interfaces.
• Design and oversee maintenance of test equipment for ground systems.
• Analyze data post-flight and post-test to identify and implement improvements.
• Lead projects related to facility and system construction, ensuring timely, within-budget completion.
• Support certification of launch pad systems and create maintenance schedules.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar field.
• Over 6 years of experience in engineering design, testing, or operations within aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Proficient in CAD tools such as SolidWorks and EPDM; familiarity with NX and Teamcenter is advantageous.
• Ability to excel working autonomously in high-paced environments.
• Proven track record mentoring junior engineers.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Background in launch pad systems or related industries like oil and gas, mining, or processing.
• Strong knowledge of structural design and analysis techniques.
• Understanding of fluid system design, sizing, and P&ID interpretation.
• Experience with industrial machinery and equipment.
• Awareness of standards such as ASME, ASTM, and NASA ground system regulations.

Work Environment and Culture

You’ll be part of a passionate team committed to overcoming challenges with innovation, teamwork, and dedication. We prioritize collaboration, humility, and agility to deliver successful missions under demanding timelines.

Important Information

US Applicants: Compliance with U.S. Government ITAR regulations requires candidates to be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or able to obtain required authorizations.

New Zealand Applicants: Security-required background checks and nationality verification will be done, requiring citizenship from approved countries under ITAR regulations.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination on any legally protected bases and provides reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process.