Development Engineer II - Thermal Protection Systems

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. NEUTRON Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER II – THERMAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS As a Development Engineer II specializing in Thermal Protection Systems (TPS), you'll be at the forefront of designing cutting-edge vehicle structures that withstand extreme environments. Collaborating closely with analysis, design, and manufacturing teams, you'll transform innovative concepts into detailed designs and precision-engineered components using advanced metallic and composite materials. Your expertise in testing, control, modelling, and analysis will be critical to ensuring the performance and reliability of these systems. This is your opportunity to push the boundaries of engineering and contribute to the creation of next-generation aerospace technologies! Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space! WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Drive innovation by creating and rapidly iterating conceptual designs in CAD for cutting-edge thermal protection systems and subassemblies across metallic and composite structures for the Neutron launch vehicle. Design critical elements such as composite assemblies, material stack-ups, joint details, seals, fastening solutions, and metallic interfaces, while collaborating closely with analysts to ensure structural and thermal requirements are met with precision. Lead the creation of detailed drawing packages and assembly models, working hand-in-hand with the production team to ensure seamless design-for-manufacture throughout the process. Own, maintain, and manage analysis tools and methods for 1D and 2D/3D analysis of thermal performance of design features. Design and implement hardware, instrumentation, and test articles to streamline development testing and correlation of models, enabling efficient validation of components and assemblies. Support TPS solutions hands-on through qualification, manufacturing, and integration activities via direct engagement with interfacing technical teams. Collaborate with Thermofluids and structures teams as primary interface on aerothermal and TPS related tools and topics Inspire and empower the next generation of engineers by providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior team members, leveraging and creating technical documentation to enhance capabilities through analysis tools and thermal testing procedures. YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification 2 - 4 years of design experience, designing high per ... (truncated, view full listing at source)