Lead Fluid Test Engineer

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 is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with clean sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Lead Fluid Test Engineer is responsible for developing the team that will bring component test stands into the real world and assuring they meet the stringent requirements needed for the Neutron program. You will support the Director of Manufacturing and the Neutron Development organization by standing up new test stands, supporting component designs early, leading assembly and testing of Neutron stands, and supporting production through testing operations.

• Coach, mentor and develop engineers to achieve new heights in their careers.
• Perform weekly, quarterly and yearly reviews with their direct employees
• Interview and hire candidates to fill new roles
• Create team goals and metrics to drive continuous improvement projects
• Lead/organize meetings as necessary to drive project completion
• Lead design & build of the Neutron & Archimedes Components test area in Long Beach
• Develop software for environmental testing and simulation
• Own assembly, checkouts and development testing of Neutron Component testing stands
• Develop the procedures & processes for component/engine tests that will form the baseline for the Neutron program into the future
• Lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations, when required
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non‑conformances
• Collaborate with the quality team to identify and drive quality‑related initiatives and improvements
• Perform structured root cause analysis of in‑process failures
• Liaison between production, quality, supply chain and design engineering staff for complex problem solving and process changes
• Identify, plan and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet production requirements, including preparation of business cases
• Lead the continuous improvement process via Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniques
• Develop, introduce, and maintain new planning, production, quality, ERP, data collection and analysis, and other processes where none exist
• Develop and implement equipment maintenance plans for all test based equipment

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• 5+ years experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or while undergoing development and qualification testing
• Personnel or technical leadership experience
• Experience developing and building safe, high pressure, pneumatic, hydrostatic, and cryogenic test stands
• Experience with…