Propulsion Engineer I, Engine 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
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving
• Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post-flight analysis

Requirements

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field
• Proven ability to conduct hotfire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems
• Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/or fluid systems analysis
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations

About the Company

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. The company’s Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, and Rocket Lab is developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle. The Space Systems business designs and builds satellites and components for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and for the James Webb Space Telescope.