Rocket Lab USA

GNC Engineer - Neutron

Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand

Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Aerospace, Robotics & AutomationIndustries

Requirements

Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Software, Mechatronics, or Aerospace Engineering, or an equivalent qualification. They must have experience with dynamics and modeling of launch vehicles, spacecraft, aircraft, or robotics, and a strong understanding of orbital mechanics and/or closed-loop control systems. Experience developing in C/C++ and Python or MATLAB is also required, along with the ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines, and excellent communication skills to build strong working relationships.

Responsibilities

As a GNC Engineer, responsibilities include mission design and trajectory optimization, developing embedded GNC algorithms, conducting simulation including hardware and physics modeling, interacting with all teams to study and inform vehicle design trades, and participating in automated hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test campaigns. The role involves contributing to the development of Rocket Lab’s Neutron launch vehicle and supporting its overall program objectives.

Skills

C/C++
Python
MATLAB
dynamics
modelling
orbital mechanics
closed-loop control systems
GNC algorithms
simulation
hardware-in-the-loop (HITL)

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.

Key Metrics

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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