Senior Design Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation • Tucson, AZ

1d

About The Position

Rocket Lab Optical Systems develops mission-critical optical systems for space-domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges. As a Senior Design Engineer I in Tucson, Arizona, you will support Tranche 3 of the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture by producing three-dimensional computer-aided designs. You will create mechanical designs and drawings for varied hardware and assemblies, collaborate with engineering and AI&T teams on designs and assembly processes, and support programs from inception through integration and test. The role also supports drawing and documentation workflows, revision control, fabrication, task and schedule communications, and on-site or off-site work as needed.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience and a bachelor's degree, or at least 9 years of experience in lieu of a bachelor's degree.
• Mechanical design experience associated with assembly and testing of optical systems.
• Experience with SolidWorks, NX, or CREO.
• Proficiency with common PDM data-management tools and administration.
• Familiarity with industry practices and standards for drafting, design modeling, and revision control.
• Proficiency with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree in Computer Aided Design, Engineering Technology, IT, or another applicable degree, or equivalent proficiency gained through practical experience.
• Expertise in implementing geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standards, FAIR inspections and tooling methods, and DFM ownership.
• Hands-on experience with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems.
• Experience as a Responsible Engineering Authority (REA) or familiarity with documentation process controls.
• Ability to support travel as required, including working off-site.

Responsibilities

• Produce mechanical designs and drawings for a wide variety of hardware and assemblies.
• Work with engineering and AI&T teams to develop designs and assembly processes.
• Support program efforts from inception through successful integration and test.
• Serve as an adjunct PDM administrator, supporting drawing workflows for review and release of drawings and other project documentation.
• Ensure technical documentation control processes are followed and implement revision control on CAD models and drawings.
• Identify and correct design, model, and drawing errors and deficiencies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Work with machine shops and vendors to complete fabrication of designs.
• Proactively complete tasks with some modest direction.
• Communicate effectively with project management and team members across disciplines.
• Provide status on assigned tasks and program schedules.
• Support on-site work as needed.
• Support travel or off-site work as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior