Development Engineer II - Thermal Protection Systems

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company providing launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite components, and more, aiming to expand access to space. Their Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched US rocket and has deployed over 230 satellites. The company is also developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle for deploying larger constellations. Their Space Systems division creates satellites and components selected for missions to the Moon, Mars, and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

As a Development Engineer II for Thermal Protection Systems (TPS), you will lead the design of advanced vehicle structures capable of enduring extreme conditions. You will collaborate with analysis, design, and manufacturing teams to convert innovative ideas into detailed designs and precisely engineered components using metallic and composite materials. Your skills in testing, control, modeling, and analysis will be essential to ensure these systems meet performance and reliability standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Innovate and quickly refine conceptual CAD designs for cutting-edge thermal protection systems and subassemblies on the Neutron launch vehicle.
• Design critical components including composite assemblies, material layering, joints, seals, fastening methods, and metallic interfaces while working closely with analysts to fulfill structural and thermal requirements.
• Develop detailed drawings and assembly models, partnering with production teams to guarantee manufacturability throughout the design process.
• Manage and sustain analysis tools and methods for one-, two-, and three-dimensional thermal performance evaluations.
• Design and implement hardware, instrumentation, and test articles to facilitate development testing and model correlation for component validation.
• Support TPS solutions hands-on during qualification, manufacturing, and integration phases in collaboration with interfacing teams.
• Serve as the main contact with Thermofluids and structures teams regarding aerothermal and TPS tools and topics.
• Mentor junior engineers by providing guidance and producing technical documentation to improve analysis tools and thermal testing procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering.
• 2 to 4 years of experience designing high-performance mechanical or thermal systems.
• Strong knowledge of material science, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and aerodynamics with emphasis on thermal protection applications.
• At least 2 years of experience with CAD software for mechanical and thermal design and analysis.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical abilities with an aptitude for holistic decision-making.
• A determined, proactive attitude with quick thinking and sound judgment.

Preferred Skills

• Deep understanding of engineering fundamentals including mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, material characterization, design and analysis methods, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in Python and MATLAB programming.
• Experience with computational fluid dynamics tools such as StarCCM, Ansys Fluent, or COMSOL.
• Familiar with engineering trade studies and material selection processes.
• Experience in thermal testing, data acquisition, test hardware development, and test planning.
• Exposure to composite structures, metallic structures, materials characterization and testing, transient thermal modeling, and high-temperature or insulative materials.
• Hands-on experience with TPS materials, manufacturing methods, spacecraft, or launch vehicles.

Additional Information

Please submit a recent CAD portfolio along with your CV and cover letter for consideration.

Work Environment and Culture

Rocket Lab fosters a hardworking, innovative, and collaborative culture focused on overcoming challenges by working together efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines. Employees are expected to maintain humility and commitment to the mission of advancing space technologies.

Important Notes for Candidates

US Office Applicants: Employment requires compliance with US Government space technology export regulations (ITAR). You must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee/asylee, or eligible for required governmental authorization.

New Zealand Office Applicants: Background checks and nationality verification are mandatory due to ITAR compliance. Eligibility requires citizenship from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries, or specific approved nationalities. Some dual citizenships may disqualify candidates.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer, prohibiting any discrimination in employment practices.