Development Engineer II at Rocket Lab USA

Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, SpaceIndustries

Requirements

Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
5+ years designing high performance mechanical systems
Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Fibersim (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA
The ability to wo (incomplete in description)

Responsibilities

Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across the Neutron launch vehicle
Support the testing structures and mechanisms, including composites and metallic components, and integrated structural, mechanical and fluids assemblies
Develop test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process and document test data to verify functional and performance requirements
Develop and execute test activities to characterise structural materials, interfaces, and subcomponents
Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies
Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace
Feed testing outcomes back into the design and manufacture process to promote continuous improvement
Engage with more experienced engineers across the team for ongoing mentorship and coaching, for both technical and behavioural skills
Prepare drawing packages & technical reports, ensuring manufacturability is considered throughout the design process
Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc
Support with the definition of design requirements
Designing prototype parts
Proactively raise issues related to quality and/or continuous improvement

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Structural DesignMechanical DesignFluid SystemsThermal ProtectionCompositesMetallicsCADDrawing PackagesQualification TestingDevelopment Testing

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary for the Development Engineer II position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Is this Development Engineer II role remote or onsite?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What skills are required for the Development Engineer II role?

The role requires CAD proficiency for conceptual designs, experience with structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal systems, and skills in testing, test planning, data analysis, and producing test jigs/fixtures.

What is the team structure like for this position at Rocket Lab?

This role involves working directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers and close collaboration with more experienced engineers on the Neutron team.

What makes a strong candidate for the Development Engineer II role?

Strong candidates can produce CAD designs, support testing of components and assemblies, develop test plans, and proactively solve technical challenges while working closely with experienced engineers.

Rocket Lab USA

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

About Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket since its debut in 2018, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit for various sectors. Rocket Lab differentiates itself from competitors by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, with multiple launch sites and a focus on affordability and reliability. The company's goal is to make space more accessible and to support a wide range of missions, from national security to scientific exploration.

Long Beach, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2006Year Founded

$713.3MTotal Funding

IPOCompany Stage

Robotics & Automation, Aerospace, DefenseIndustries

1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Paid Holidays

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Flexible Spending Account

Company Equity

Wellness Program

Phone/Internet Stipend

Childcare Support

Gym Membership

Employee Discounts

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Professional Development Budget

Conference Attendance Budget

Flexible Work Hours

Hybrid Work Options

Risks

Increased competition from SpaceX as Rocket Lab develops the Neutron rocket.

Potential delays in Virginia launch site could impact schedules and revenue.

Reliance on New Zealand site poses risks from geopolitical tensions or natural disasters.

Differentiation

Rocket Lab's Electron is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually.

Photon platform supports NASA missions to the Moon, Mars, and private Venus missions.

Neutron rocket development positions Rocket Lab as a competitor in heavy-lift launches.

Upsides

Collaboration with Air Force Research Lab could lead to more defense contracts.

Operational efficiency shown by two launches in 24 hours from different hemispheres.

Investment by Pier 88 indicates strong investor confidence in Rocket Lab's growth.

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