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ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
STAFF CONSULTANT - LAUNCH SYSTEMS
Rocket Lab is seeking an exceptional engineering leader to formulate mission solutions for launch customers in suborbital markets, including the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. With high-demand to apply Rocket Lab's unique capabilities to emerging DoD missions, NASA science, and point-to-point transportation - no two missions will be the same! As an Architect on the Electron and Neutron teams you will have a unique opportunity to help shape the Global Launch Services Division, and with the high launch cadence of Electron, unparallel opportunity to support advancement of critical US National Security and Civil Science needs.
The Launch Systems Staff Consultant will be responsible for developing Electron and Neutron missions for suborbital applications in support of the Global Launch Services Business Development and Strategy team. The Launch Systems Solutions Architect will lead the initial concept and launch vehicle configuration for rapid conceptual design of missions ranging from national security suborbital missions, test launches of ballistic and hypersonic payloads, and NASA sounding-rocket science. Responsibilities include the synthesis of multi-disciplinary inputs from Electron and Neutron subject-matter experts across GNC and Aerothermal analysis, Vehicle Engineering, Integrated Operations and Launch.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Primary technical architect contact to Business Development for proposal and mission concepts, including:
- Ballistic, Hypersonic, and unique suborbital trajectory design and analysis.
- Mission-specific requirements engineering
- Technical Volume proposal leadership and written contributions
- Leadership and coordination with engineering staff regarding vehicle system-level design needs based on mission requirements
- Frequent engagement with DoD, IC, and NASA Customers for communicating Rocket Lab mission solutions, including travel
- Working with the Rocket Lab Electron and Neutron engineers to:
- Create technical, cost, and schedule estimates for engineered mission solutions
- Documenting the proposed GNC solution and participating in early-phase design reviews with the customer.
- Develop tools and processes for automating common proposal analysis tasks.
- Support transition of solutions to mission execution phases
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Masters or Ph.D. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or comparable field.
- 5+ years' experience developing and optimizing launch vehicle trajectories using POST, ASTOS or equivalent tool.
- 5+ years' experience developing or analyzing GNC systems for launch vehicles, preferably in Python or MATLAB.
- 5+ years' cross-disciplinary experience designing and analyzing systems for orbital and suborbital launch vehicles, sounding rockets, or missile bodies, including control systems, aerothermal, mechanical, and payload interfaces
- Thorough understanding of ballistic and hypersonics missile applications, system design, and analysis
- US Government security clearance Secret or TS/SCI
- Position requires 10% domestic travel
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Ph.D. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical engineering, or a comparable field.
- Thorough understanding of DoD and NASA suborbital (missile or sounding rocket) programs and customers
- Previous experience as technical contributor to US Government proposals
- Experience with US Government contracts
- Experience with Git version control.
- The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships.
PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
- Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
- Must be physically able to commute to buildings
- Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.
The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.
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. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR .
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Biow at This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here
Rocket Lab USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, employment with Rocket Lab USA is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.