Propulsion Engineer I/II - Engine Systems at Rocket Lab USA

Long Beach, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Junior (1 to 2 years), Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, SpaceIndustries

Requirements

Propulsion Engineer I:
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field
Strong fundamental understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems
Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles
Propulsion Engineer II:
2+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations
Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems

Responsibilities

Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success
Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements
Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving
Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post-flight analysis

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Propulsion EngineeringEngine SystemsTest CampaignsData AnalysisSystems ArchitectureReliability EngineeringLiquid PropulsionArchimedes Engine

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Propulsion Engineer position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Is this Propulsion Engineer role remote or onsite?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What skills are required for the Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer role?

Success requires strong autonomy, technical expertise, curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to organize complex systems into actionable plans while collaborating across teams.

What is the company culture like at Rocket Lab for this role?

Rocket Lab offers a fast-growing startup environment that fosters growth and innovation, with opportunities to join a high performing team pushing boundaries on reusable launch vehicle development.

What makes a strong candidate for the Propulsion Engineer I/II position?

A strong candidate is a self-starter with strong autonomy, technical expertise, and the ability to lead projects with minimal oversight in a fast-paced environment.

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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