Senior​/Principal Propulsion 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. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable space missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate-change initiatives, national security, and technology demonstrations.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle designed to deliver mega constellations of tomorrow, high-assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron aims to provide a cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

SENIOR / PRINCIPAL ENGINE SYSTEMS ENGINEER

As Senior/Principal Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer, you will contribute to the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron program. You will own subsystems and engine operation, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve evaluation capabilities, and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations. This role requires technical expertise, strong autonomy, and the ability to align teams and projects with program goals.

Principal Engineers will also influence cross-functional efforts and contribute to the broader Neutron program success.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next-generation propulsion hardware to ensure operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
• Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and aligning with program goals.
• Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
• Work with manufacturing, testing, and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and issue resolution across the engine lifecycle.

LEVELS

This position can be hired as a Senior Engine Systems Engineer I, Senior Engine Systems Engineer II, or Principal Engine Systems Engineer.

QUALIFICATIONS

Senior Engine Systems Engineer I

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

Senior Engine Systems Engineer II

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

Principal Engine Systems Engineer

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• 12+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

DESIRED ADDITIONS

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
• Experience with oxygen-rich staged combustion systems and methyl/LOX propellants.
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
• Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to travel to test and launch facilities (~25%).
• Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends as needed.
• Vision requirements: close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and focus ability.
• Regularly required to sit, operate a…