Mechanical Engineer I​/II - Space Payloads

Mechanical Engineer I/II - Space Payloads

Chantilly, VA

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 to space. Our rockets and satellites enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate‑change mitigation, national security, and new technology demonstrations.

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites and payload components, including spacecraft that support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and parts used on the James Webb Space Telescope. Our team has enabled over 1,700 missions, from interplanetary exploration to in‑space manufacturing and national‑security initiatives. Working with partners such as NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force, we empower bold and ambitious space missions.

The Optical Systems division solves mission‑critical space‑domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for DoD and IC customers. By combining more than 20 years of electro‑optical and infrared systems innovation, we deliver responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.

As a Mechanical Engineer I/II based at our Optical Systems site in Chantilly, VA, you will support multiple advanced space payload and IRAD programs. You will contribute to technical programs across all phases—design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. Bring curiosity, collaboration, and keen attention to detail to a team that relentlessly tackles challenging projects and makes an impact on the future of space.

• Produce mechanical concepts and designs for a wide variety of hardware and projects.
• Work with machine shops and vendors to fabricate designs.
• See designs through to successful integration and test.
• Use investigative and trouble‑shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab.
• Work proactively to complete tasks with guidance as needed.
• Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines.
• Contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews.
• Attend technical interchange meetings with team members and other project personnel, representing the organization in matters pertaining to the development of the project(s).
• Provide status on assigned tasks and program schedules.
• Provide document review and resolve technical engineering and integration issues.
• Support travel as required, including working off‑site.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline.
• Strong computer skills and experience with CAD modeling and drawing.
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline.
• 2+ years of mechanical design experience.
• Strong computer skills and experience with CAD modeling and drawing.
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

• Experience with FEA/FEM.
• Experience with mechanism design.
• Experience with materials engineering and processes.
• Experience with environmental testing.
• Experience with Solid Works or NX.
• Experience in understanding Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing.
• Experience with documentation process controls.
• Experience with mechanical design for optical and electro‑optical systems.
• Hands‑on experience with optical, telescope, laser, or space systems.
• Experience designing optical mounts for demanding applications and environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and ability to problem‑solve.
• Team player who incorporates a team‑based success philosophy and seeks mentorship.

• Must have adequate vision and be able to focus; regular use of computer…