Senior Ground Systems Engineer - Mechanical

About the role

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer – Mechanical to lead the design, development, testing, and commissioning of critical ground support structures and fluid systems for its Electron and upcoming Neutron launch vehicles. You will work in a fast‑paced, high‑vibration environment to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient ground operations.

Key responsibilities

• Design launch vehicle transporters, erectors, launchers, spacecraft handling equipment, and ground support tooling.
• Develop fluid systems, including cryogenic lines, with a focus on safety and efficiency.
• Perform structural design and analysis for high‑vibration and hazardous environments.
• Create 2D and 3D models using CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX) and conduct system sizing using hand calculations and numerical methods.
• Maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and interface control documentation.
• Collaborate with suppliers, technicians, and cross‑functional teams to meet specifications.
• Support test and operations teams, assisting pad technicians during installation and commissioning.

Required profile

• Senior‑level mechanical engineering expertise in ground systems for launch vehicles.
• Hands‑on experience with high‑vibration, harsh, and hazardous environments.
• Proven ability to lead technical decisions from concept through commissioning.
• Strong collaboration skills with suppliers and internal teams.

Required skills

• SolidWorks
• NX
• CAD modeling (2D/3D)
• Cryogenic fluid system design
• Structural analysis
• Hand calculations and numerical methods
• BOM management
• Interface control documentation