Senior Mechanical Engineer I - Secret Clearance

SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives.

Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I - SECRET CLEARANCE Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer is responsible for developing high performance and lightweight satellite deployment systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers.

You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: - Support the Business Development team with proposals and mission concepts - Develop high performance and lightweight satellite systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers - Develop concepts and satellite configurations for high value science and interplanetary missions - Define what mechanisms look like on a modern satellite system/bus - Own component designs from conceptual design through production, test, and operation - Perform hand-calcs and FEA to drive design decisions - Lead key component design, manufacturing, and test reviews - Create and maintain product definition through CAD, production drawings, and test and operations procedures - Manage development schedules, vendors, budgets, and other project deliverables QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I: - Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline - 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience - Experience with CAD modeling and drawing - Active Secret Clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI - U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: - Master's or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline - Spacecraft/satellite design experience - Rapid conceptual design iteration experience - Exceptional mechanical mechanism problem-solving skills - Hands-on development and testing experience - Experience with analysis and interpretation of test data (Thermal, Vibe) - Ability to take a product from concept through to production with little supervision - Highly self-motivated and able to work autonomously - Master's degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering - Ability to apply GD&T to component designs - Experience developing satellite deployment systems - General spacecraft systems engineering knowledge, and experience with requirements assessments and interface control document generation This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion. Base Pay Range (CA Only) $115,000 - $158,000 USD WHAT TO EXPECT We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task.