Team Lead - Thermofluids Analysis

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise that offers responsive launch services, spacecraft design and production, payloads, satellite components, and more, aiming to democratize space access. Our launch vehicles and satellites support diverse missions including scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate change initiatives, national security, and pioneering technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having placed over 230 satellites in orbit. We are actively developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable rocket designed for larger constellation launches. Our Space Systems division designs and manufactures a broad range of satellites and components selected for key missions such as NASA’s lunar and Mars programs and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Neutron Program

The Neutron team is charged with delivering this new heavy-lift rocket and its launch and testing infrastructure across the United States. This includes designing and testing components, conducting engine firings, and establishing launch and test facilities.

Role Summary

As the Team Lead for Thermofluids Analysis based in Auckland, you will oversee a dedicated group of thermofluid analysts focused on analysis, design validation, and enhancement of Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles, space systems, and components. Your leadership will set professional standards, drive productivity, and ensure timely achievement of objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead advanced thermofluids analyses including CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic aerodynamic flows, internal compressible and incompressible fluid systems, and various heat transfer modes (conduction, convection, radiation).
• Collaborate closely with design and test engineering teams to refine designs, analyze flight and ground test data for performance validation, and detect anomalies using fundamental physics and data analytics.
• Guide technical approaches by performing peer reviews, establishing methodologies, documenting best practices, and developing qualification test criteria while facilitating knowledge exchange among global teams.
• Mentor and support team members through coaching, training programs, performance management, and fostering a positive professional environment.

Required Qualifications

• A postgraduate engineering degree in Mechanical, Aerospace or a related discipline with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in aerospace, automotive, or marine industries applying first principles physics for problem resolution.
• Expert proficiency in CFD and thermal simulations using packages such as Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST, with a strong record of validating and documenting complex analyses.
• Competence in NX CAD/Teamcenter or equivalent design software, selection and post-processing of sensor data, and engineering programming primarily in Python (including numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib).
• Proven ability to deliver results under tight deadlines in demanding environments, strong interpersonal skills for cross-team collaboration, and effective communication through documentation and presentations.

Desirable Attributes

• Background in structural mechanics and analysis to complement thermofluids expertise, enhancing problem-solving breadth.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards such as MIL-STD-1540, GSFC-STD-7000, ECSS-E-HB-32, and NASA-STD-5001.
• Understanding of manufacturing techniques including traditional machining and additive manufacturing to support design-for-manufacture decisions.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers and fostering their professional growth through structured training and coaching.

Work Culture

Joining Rocket Lab means committing to a mission to enable space accessibility benefiting Earth. We value determination, innovation, teamwork, resilience, and dedication to overcoming challenging goals. We cultivate a supportive, ego-free environment focused on collective success and adaptability under pressure.

Important Candidate Information

For U.S.-based positions: Due to U.S. Government space export regulations (ITAR), applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or eligible for required government authorizations.

For New Zealand-based roles: Security background checks and nationality verification will be conducted in compliance with ITAR requirements. Eligibility is restricted to citizens of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, NATO countries, or those without conflicting dual citizenship.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and prohibiting discrimination in all employment terms and conditions.