Vehicle Integration Engineer I​/II

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.

The Neutron Vehicle Integration Engineer (level I or II) is responsible for the integration, test, and launch of the Neutron launch vehicle. This position works closely with the Neutron Vehicle Integration Engineer and other key team members, developing processes, working in a team environment, identifying and designing/building necessary equipment for receipt and final integration, and launch of the Neutron Launch Vehicle.

The role includes developing con‑ops, designing and building ground support tools, and ensuring effective integration procedures and tests.

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.

(This position can be hired as a Vehicle Integration Engineer I or Vehicle Integration Engineer II)

• Develop con‑ops, design and drive build of associated ground support tooling and processes for handling components and integrated stages of the Neutron Launch Vehicle.
• Develop and execute procedures for the integration of Neutron Launch Vehicle flight hardware and ground support equipment.
• Support Neutron Integration Manager in developing and enabling day‑to‑day execution of the 1st and 2nd stage vehicle integration, propellant system, avionics, and AFTS.
• Develop and refine inspection, repair/retrofit, assembly and system test procedures based on lessons learned.
• Develop and design high‑level vehicle maintenance architecture, including build flow and test operations for maximum efficiency.
• Develop and execute vehicle system‑level checkouts for initial and flown launch vehicle and components.
• Contribute, develop, and own work procedures and documentation of non‑conformances into actionable items and system improvements.
• Maintain integrated planning documents that are inclusive of Launch Vehicle configurations and work scope.
• Design and develop tools and hardware to enable vehicle processing and ensure required testing abilities.
• Develop, build, and maintain Neutron processing facilities.
• Closely collaborate with management staff and peers from other departments and highly skilled technicians on a daily routine.
• Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus toward common project goals.

• Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or manufacturing engineering required.
• Knowledge of building and testing of hardware associated with a launch vehicle and its environments.
• Demonstrated proficiency in authoring comprehensive work instructions and procedures for assembly, test, and launch.
• Proven ability to interface with multidisciplinary functions of mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems.

• Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or manufacturing engineering required.
• 2+ years of experience in building and testing of hardware associated with a launch vehicle and its environments.
• Demonstrated proficiency in authoring comprehensive work instructions and procedures for assembly, test, and launch.
• Proven ability to interface with multidisciplinary functions of mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems.

• Master of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or manufacturing or equivalent.
• Experience and demonstrated proficiency in developing and utilizing comprehensive work instructions and test…