Principal R&D Engineer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company delivering flexible launch services and complete spacecraft solutions including design, manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components aimed at expanding space accessibility. Our rockets and satellites power crucial missions in scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate initiatives, national security, and novel technology demonstrations around the globe. Our Electron rocket is one of the most frequently launched U.S. rockets, having deployed over 230 satellites. Currently, we are advancing Neutron, a medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle to support larger constellation deployments.

The Space Systems division crafts a variety of satellites, payloads, and components, some designated for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and others for significant projects like the James Webb Space Telescope.

Neutron Program

The Neutron team is responsible for the creation and execution of Neutron, our new large rocket and its associated launch and test infrastructure across the U.S. This role presents an opportunity to contribute to the launch of a new large rocket.

Role Overview: Principal R&D Engineer

We are seeking a Principal Development Engineer to contribute to the Neutron platform, focusing on mechanical structures and mechanisms. This role involves collaboration with structural analysts, designers, manufacturing engineers, and prototyping teams to plan and implement design and certification strategies for the launch vehicle.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to quickly evaluate concepts, carry out system trade studies, and develop integrated design solutions.
• Define material architecture decisions across component to system levels, including selection, properties, allowable design, processing methods, inspection techniques, and continuous improvement practices.
• Design and manage material testing programs to build material property databases, particularly for metallic components.
• Lead and coordinate projects across internal teams and external partners to ensure timely, budget-compliant, and scope-appropriate delivery.
• Engage in critical technical decision-making phases such as design reviews, test readiness assessments, change management, and risk evaluations.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges proactively to maintain project momentum.
• Mentor and support the technical development of engineering colleagues.

Applicant Profile

Ideal candidates thrive in complex, ambiguous environments and are eager to guide a multidisciplinary project from conceptual phases through integration and launch.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 8 years in design, development, and testing of material systems within a high-performance sector such as aerospace, aviation, automotive racing, or defense.
• Proven expertise in metallic materials and associated process development and qualification.
• Strong understanding of metallic material properties and behavior.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to foster effective professional relationships.
• Capability to work under tight deadlines and high-pressure conditions.
• A strong passion for learning and solving complex, ambiguous material challenges.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of aerospace standards on surface treatment, heat treatment, corrosion, and fracture mechanics.
• Experience with Siemens Team Center or Infor LN software.
• Transitioning products from prototyping to production environments.
• Understanding of soft materials utilized in structural roles such as seals and lubricants.
• Rapid composite tooling design and fabrication expertise.
• Skills in additive manufacturing, heat treating, machining, or welding of metallic materials.
• Familiarity with aerospace adhesive and bonding processes.
• Proficiency with CAD tools like NX (preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, or Inventor.
• Experience operating within quality systems including change and configuration management.
• Hands-on composite fabrication, mechanical testing, and thermal testing abilities.

Employee Benefits

• Engage with pioneering space technologies.
• Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship available.
• Participation in employee stock purchase programs.
• Access to leading industry experts for professional development.
• Unlimited coffee, fruit, and snacks provided.
• Company branded merchandise including mission patches and apparel.
• Discounted health insurance through Southern Cross.
• Additional parental leave beyond statutory requirements.
• A dynamic workplace culture enriched with social activities throughout the year.

Additional Information

Working at Rocket Lab demands resilience, innovation, teamwork, and determination to achieve ambitious goals fast and efficiently. We prioritize collaboration, humility, and a strong work ethic, thriving under deadlines and focusing on solutions rather than obstacles.

Compliance and Eligibility

Employment in U.S. offices requires compliance with U.S. Government export controls including ITAR regulations. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or able to obtain the necessary authorizations.

For New Zealand positions, candidates must pass background checks including nationality verification because of U.S. export control requirements. Eligible applicants generally hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, or NATO countries. Dual citizenship or certain nationalities may restrict eligibility.