Thermofluids Analyst II

Responsibilities

• Perform, validate, and document CFD analyses of launch vehicle fluid systems including compressible and incompressible flow
• Conduct heat transfer simulations (conduction, convection, and radiation) and integrated thermal analyses (ITAs)
• Perform thermofluid analyses of primary and secondary launch vehicle systems, including model development and numerical analysis
• Work with design and test engineers to iterate design concepts and determine test requirements
• Process and interpret ground test and flight data to identify root causes of vehicle anomalies
• Conduct peer reviews of analyses and document data processing methodologies
• Support vehicle subsystem testing through correlation of test and analysis results
• Develop new propellant dynamics models and automate test/flight data reviews

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a similar field
• 3-5 years of industry experience in Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors
• Strong understanding of physical principles such as heat transfer, internal flow, and aerodynamics
• Fluid engineering experience involving pressure loss, valves, and sensors
• Proficiency with industry-standard CFD packages (Fluent, CFX, or STAR-CCM+)
• Experience with Python and scientific packages (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, Matplotlib)
• Experience with experimental test methods and sensor selection (thermocouples, pressure transducers, etc.)
• Ability to work to deadlines in a high-pressure environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with propellant dynamics (slosh, flow instabilities, Pogo)
• Experience with pumps, pressurization systems, and cryogenics
• Knowledge of thermal protection system (TPS) design and implementation
• Experience with thermal modelling packages (Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST)
• Familiarity with Solidworks CAD and PDM packages
• Knowledge of industry standards such as MIL-STD-1540 or NASA-STD-5001

About the Company

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components to open access to space.