Senior Fluid Systems Engineer I

About The Role

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.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

SENIOR FLUID SYSTEMS ENGINEER I

A Senior Fluid Systems Engineer I, Neutron leads the design, build, and test of their fluid systems across the Neutron launch vehicle. You will collaborate with and provide guidance to a team of engineers in the Fluid Systems department to turn vehicle-level requirements into a fluid network that enables Neutron to operate with aircraft-like reusability and reliability.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Perform trade studies and sizing – using hand-calcs, analytical models or test data – to define key elements of system architecture
• Provide guidance & mentorship to teammates on and beyond the fluids team to inform fluid system design, test & operations best practices
• Lead key fluid system design, manufacturing and test reviews
• Coordinate with component design, GSE, propulsion, GNC and other interrelated teams to solve multidisciplinary issues
• Create and maintain analytical models that characterize and predict system behavior under all relevant conditions
• Champion efforts to create and maintain piping and instrumentation diagrams, system CAD, production drawings, and system test and operations procedures
• Perform planning, analysis, and troubleshooting of system performance during real-time operations and post-test data reviews
• Project management including development schedules, vendor management, budgeting, etc.
• Create tools to enhance the team’s analysis capabilities, streamline workflow and optimize launch operations

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant engineering discipline
• 5+ years of experience designing, operating, troubleshooting fluids systems
• Strong engineering fundamentals in fluid dynamics and thermodynamics
• Solid understanding of fluid components such as valves, pressure vessels, flex elements & fittings
• Working knowledge of manufacturing, fabrication, integration processes & quality control relevant to fluid components (valves, flex hoses, tubing, bellows, etc.)

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 8+ years experience in a fast-paced aerospace environment where you have completed difficult projects while collaborating effectively with other key groups
• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive & professional relationships, & contribute to a culture of inclusion
• Experience working with a distributed team across the globe
• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field
• Experience with oxygen & methane systems
• Experience using fluids analysis tools such as REFPROP and GFSSP
• Experience using Siemens NX
• Experience using Python
• Proven ability to practically apply engineering fundamentals to solve real, complex problems
• Demonstrated ability to rally a team to make & execute good decisions in a fast-paced environment with information available

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 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.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: 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, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$115,200—$144,000 USD

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 here.

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 Johnson at [email protected] 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 ITAR Regulations.