Mechanical Engineer II/Senior

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. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions MECHANICAL ENGINEER II/SENIOR As a Mechanical Engineer based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, you will be responsible for developing high performance, lightweight satellite deployment systems and mechanisms. This development will cover the conceptual design, prototyping, testing, optimization and initial production phases. We are looking for someone with a high level of experience in CAD, GDT, mechanical systems, carbon composite manufacturing and spaceflight testing/integration. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space! (Please note: this position can be hired at the Mechanical Engineer II or Senior Mechanical Engineer I level.) WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Design solar array mechanisms alongside the structural and electrical engineering team. This position develops high performance, lightweight satellite deployment systems and mechanisms. Review the conceptual design, prototyping, testing, optimization and initial production phases. Work hands on with CAD, GDT, mechanical systems, carbon composite manufacturing. Provide technical guidance on proposals. Develop qualification and testing acceptance plans as well as overseeing the testing and providing feedback on this. YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS MECHANICAL ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree 2+ years of experience as a mechanical engineer Experience working in the aerospace industry YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER I: Bachelor’s degree 5+ years of experience as a mechanical engineer Experience working in the aerospace industry THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 7+ years of experience as a mechanical engineer in the aerospace industry Direct experience in designing, developing, and testing spacecraft mechanisms Advanced knowledge/skills in CAD modeling/drawing (Siemens NX, TeamCenter) Rapid conceptual design iteration Exceptional mechanical mechanism problem-solvin ... (truncated, view full listing at source)