Senior Ground Systems Engineer – Fluids
About The Position
Rocket Lab is hiring a Senior Ground Systems Engineer – Fluids to serve as a subject matter expert and technical decision-maker for the design, build, and activation of critical ground systems supporting the Neutron Launch Vehicle. The role involves systems operating in harsh and hazardous environments and ensuring they meet the demands of space exploration. This is a hands-on, collaborative position involving suppliers, technicians, and cross-functional teams. The engineer will contribute from concept through commissioning to help ensure Rocket Lab’s ground systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support missions.
Requirements
- ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
- At least 5 years of directly applicable design, testing, and/or operations experience in the aerospace or industrial sectors.
- Knowledge of fluid systems, sizing calculations, and P&IDs.
- Proficiency in CAD software, including NX and SolidWorks.
- Ability to mentor and guide entry-level engineers through fluid-systems design.
Nice To Haves
- Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, autonomous environment.
- Professional Engineer license.
- Experience with piping systems, large or small.
- Experience with launch pad systems, engine test stands, or similar industry systems.
- Experience with rocket or payload conditioning systems.
- Experience with equipment used with oxygen.
- Experience with nodal analysis tools such as GFSSP or AFT.
- Experience with pipe stress software such as Caesar II.
- Experience with ASME, ASTM, NFPA, and/or NASA ground-system standards.
Responsibilities
- Design fluid systems, including cryogenics, hydraulics, fuels, high-pressure gases, and HVAC.
- Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software, specifically NX.
- Perform system sizing and analysis using hand calculations and numerical methods.
- Generate and maintain fluid/process system schematics, including P&IDs and connection diagrams.
- Select and develop components and maintain bills of materials (BOMs).
- Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
- Support certification of launch pad fluid systems.
- Support development of maintenance programs.
- Mentor and guide entry-level engineers through the fluid-systems design process.
Benefits
- Company stock as part of total compensation.
- Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount on company stock.
- Medical plans.
- Dental coverage.
- Vision coverage.
- Paid vacation and sick time.
- 11 paid holidays.
- Flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
- Paid parental leave.
- Disability insurance.
- Life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Other discounts and perks.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
