Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer I/II

About the role

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 to 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. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 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. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. 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 PROPULSION TEST ENGINEER I/II As a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer I/II for our propulsion engineering team based out of Long Beach, CA., your purpose will be to plan, prepare for, and execute engine and propulsion component testing. This includes ownership of the test facility, equipment, and test operations. You will play a critical role in successful development, qualification, and production testing, which directly results in the success of our missions and products. As part of the propulsion development team, you will be involved with engine and propulsion system development from cradle-to-grave, providing test-driven insights that improve the reliability, manufacturability, testability, and performance of our products. (Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer I or Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer II level) WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Set and maintain best practices for all aspects of testing, ensuring a high standard of excellence across the team. Provide guidance, training, mentorship, and technical leadership to team members on testing methodologies and processes. Review and sign off on test plans and test reports, ensuring quality and compliance with requirements. Support engineers and leadership with risk-based decision making to guide the team through development challenges. Own the full testing lifecycle, including test planning, setup, instrumentation, execution, data analysis, and reporting. Apply a systems engineering mindset to testing activities, integrating with broader engineering efforts. Communicate regularly and effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, both internal and external to the team. Define, document, and uphold standards of excellence through training, coaching, and review of others' work. Contribute to meaningful, career-defining projects alongside exceptional colleagues in a collaborative environment. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS SENIOR PROPULSION TEST ENGINEER I: 5+ years of experience in rocket engine test engineering, or equivalent high-performance field Bachelor's degree in engineering, (aerospace, mechanical, mechatronics, or other technical engineering discipline). Ability to travel to test facilities and work off-site for extended periods. Prior work on engine test facilities and experience hot fire testing liquid rocket engines, including instrumentation, test operation, and data analysis Expertise in instrumentation, automation, and data acquisition using either National Instruments or Beckhoff PLC YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS SENIOR PROPULSION TEST ENGINEER II: 8+ years of experience in rocket engine test engineering, or equivalent high-performance field Bachelor's degree in engineering, (aerospace, mechanical, mechatronics, or other technical engineering discipline) Ability to travel to test facilities and work off-site for extended periods. Prior work on engine test facilities and experience hot fire testing liquid rocket engin

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