Propulsion Components Engineer II

About the role

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems Propulsion team is seeking a senior engineer to lead the end‑to‑end development of fluid‑system components for spacecraft propulsion. The role combines technical leadership—CAD design, analysis, prototyping and testing—with project‑management duties such as stakeholder communication and schedule coordination.

Key responsibilities

• Own the development of new or existing propulsion fluid‑system components from concept through flight operation.
• Create conceptual and detailed CAD models, perform calculations, analyses and system design work.
• Prototype, test and qualify hardware, and support procurement and production of flight hardware.
• Act as technical lead, mentoring junior engineers and technicians.
• Interface regularly with cross‑functional teams including GNC, Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Flight Software, Thermal and Structures.

Required profile

• Proven experience in spacecraft propulsion component development and hands‑on hardware qualification.
• Ability to take cradle‑to‑grave ownership of systems and components.
• Strong communication skills for stakeholder interaction and schedule management.

Required skills

• CAD design (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA or equivalent).
• Fluid‑system design and analysis for electric and chemical propulsion.
• Hardware prototyping and testing.
• Technical calculations and system‑level analysis.