About The Role
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
You already know that Rocket Lab is a global leader in space launch. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future.
ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS AT ROCKET LAB:
Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA’s Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we’re going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.
We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we’re unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them, and constantly innovate.
Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we’re only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible – together.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
Innovative and reliable chemical propulsion is one of Rocket Lab’s key differentiators. As the Team Lead - In-Space Propulsion, your purpose will be to work with and enable the individuals on your team to develop new systems and components, innovate on existing designs, and solve challenges that arise during development and production. As a team, you will ensure that Rocket Lab maintains its market leading position. As with all positions at Rocket Lab, this is an opportunity to do career-defining work with exceptional people on meaningful projects.
In this role, you will be responsible for
- Leadership and management of individual team members and projects across multiple programs.
- Upholding high company standards for best practices and quality of work.
- Technical problem solving, review, and guidance for the team.
- Making escalated decisions and solving team/company challenges through guidance and resource allocation of direct reports.
- Managing technical risk within the scope of immediate team.
- Communicating effectively with leadership and other teams.
- Planning, including staffing and budgetary estimation.
- Defining or refining processes that are important to the team’s work and performance.
- Managing and improving interfaces between the team and internal customers.
- Support team members with regular 1:1s, coaching on professional development, and performance reviews.
- Ensuring that the team and individual contributors are working in a way that is in the best interest of the Space Systems business unit and broader company.
ABOUT THE TEAM:
In-Space Propulsion (ISP) is one of three sub-teams within the Space Systems Propulsion Team. They are responsible for developing and delivering qualified, flight-ready space vehicle propulsion systems. Their focus is often on components and systems related to the thrust chamber, TVC, and main valves; their work leans towards design but includes all aspects of the space system development lifecycle. Examples of past work include the Curie and HyperCurie engines. Currently, the team is working on the propulsion system for ESCAPADE, a NASA science mission to Mars, as well as the Victus Haze mission.
The Space Systems Propulsion team consists of development engineers with a range of experience and skill sets. Each engineer takes ownership of components or a system through its development lifecycle and production implementation. The skill set of the team spans systems engineering, project management, design, build, test, modelling, and analysis. The team works hands-on with development, qualification, and flight hardware. Team members regularly work with stakeholders across the company, including GNC, Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Flight Software, Analysis, and others.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- A genuine passion for engineering, curious mindset, and willingness to learn.
- 5+ years of experience in propulsion system development, or equivalent high-performance field.
- 1+ year of experience in a people leadership role.
- Detailed mechanical design experience using NX (preferred) or equivalent industry standard CAD software, including review of designs and approval for release to production.
- Strong understanding of best practices for project management, systems engineering, and configuration management.
- Demonstrable ability to move efficiently through development iterations, balancing cost, quality, and timeline effectively.
- Excellent grasp of mechanical engineering fundamentals (e.g. stress, strain, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, mechanisms).
- Good ability to maintain professional attitude when facing challenges.
- Engineering degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Mechatronics.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- End-to-end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation program leadership.
- Experience at an established, high-performance company with mature processes.
- Hands-on hardware build and testing experience.
- Experience with chemical propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants.
- Prior use of Jama or equivalent requirement management software.
- In depth knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
- Experience with NI software, such as Flexlogger, and instrumentation hardware.
ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:
- The opportunity to work on innovative andground-breakingtechnology
- Relocation support and visa sponsorship
- An employee stock purchase program
- Access to world leading experts to develop your career
- Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks
- Rocket Lab merchandise - T-shirts, mission patches etc.
- Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
- Additionalparental leave entitlements
- A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year
If the above sounds like you apply now!
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Biow at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click hereITAR Regulations.
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