Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I/II Pipeline

Rocket Lab Corporation•Long Beach, CA

1d•$80,000 - $130,000

About The Position

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 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. SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE We are currently seeking Spacecraft Thermal Engineers I/II for future opportunities for our thermal engineering team based out of Long Beach. This team supports our Space System division and lead cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Spacecraft Thermal Engineers are responsible for overseeing the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Rocket Lab’s space vehicles. They are expected to perform thermal modeling and data analysis while working closely with the test and design engineers to capture the vehicle’s thermal performance and provide input for design improvements. They support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. (Please note: this position can be hired at the Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I or Spacecraft Thermal Engineer II level)

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
Experience with thermal engineering
U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements
Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
2+ years of thermal engineering experience
U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

Nice To Haves

Master's or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
Strong background in heat transfer
Experience with thermal systems and passive thermal management techniques
Familiarity using Siemens NX and Teamcenter, with emphasis on model interrogation and defeaturing for subsequent analyses
Demonstrated experience with Thermal Desktop
Experience with planning, execution, and data analysis of thermal balance tests
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
Ability to work independently but also build strong working relationships with colleagues
Experience with constant conductance and variable conductance heat pipes
Experience working with multi-layer insulation: design, fabrication, installation, and test
Experience with 0-D and 1-D thermal/fluid networks
Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python and MATLAB
Familiarity with thermal engineering tools such as NX Space Systems Thermal, ANSYS, SINDA, and THERMICA
Knowledge of aspects of launch and on-orbit operations
Familiarity with orbital mechanics and attitude dynamics related to thermal analysis

Responsibilities

Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles
Conduct thermal design trade studies that successfully balance performance margins, resource use, risk, cost, and schedule
Identify and resolve thermal design, acceptance, and performance issues for space vehicle components and assemblies
Design and execute thermal tests for space vehicle components and assemblies
Perform thermal model validation using test and in-flight data
Liaise with all levels of program and engineering staff on thermal design and test matters, and support other teams/disciplines as necessary
Identify and research potential vendors of thermal control materials

Benefits

top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage
3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year
11 paid holidays per year
flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
paid parental leave
disability insurance
life insurance
access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match
Discounted employee stock purchase program
subsidized EV charging stations
onsite gym
food and drinks, and other discounts