Senior Thermofluids Analyst

Senior Thermofluids Analyst – Rocket Lab As a Thermofluids Analyst II on Rocket Lab’s Neutron team, you will contribute to the analysis, design validation, and performance improvement of launch vehicle fluid systems. Your work will support the development of key systems such as pressurisation, propellant management, and reaction control across all flight phases. Responsibilities Perform, validate, and document CFD analyses of launch vehicle fluid systems, including compressible/incompressible flow, two‑phase, aerodynamics, and choked flow. Conduct heat transfer simulations, integrated thermal analyses (ITAs), component thermal analyses, aeroheating response, and TPS specification. Perform thermofluid analyses, model development, numerical analysis, material selection, and performance optimisation studies. Collaborate with design and test engineers to iterate design concepts, determine test requirements, and demonstrate positive margins. Process and interpret ground test and flight data to verify MPE bounds, detect anomalies, resolve sensor issues, and determine root causes using physical principles. Conduct peer reviews, document methodologies, and produce test levels (Acceptance, Proto‑qualification, Qualification) using approved margining approaches. Support subsystem testing through test‑analysis correlation, pre/post‑test reports, and standardisation of analysis procedures per industry best practice. Develop propellant dynamics models (temperature, gas rejection, control strategies) and contribute to automation of test and flight data review processes. Required Qualifications A degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of industry experience, ideally in Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors. Strong understanding of physical principles (heat transfer, electronics, internal flow, aerodynamics, etc.). Fluid engineering experience with pressure loss, valves, and sensors. Demonstrated experience with industry‑standard CFD packages: Fluent, CFX, or STAR‑CCM+. Experience in Python and scientific packages (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib). Demonstrated thermal modelling of components, networks, and lump masses. Experience with experimental test methods, sensor selection, and data post‑processing/interpreting (thermocouples, pressure transducers, accelerometers, strain gauges, microphones, etc.). Ability to meet deadlines in a high‑pressure environment. Strong communication skills and the ability to build robust working relationships with engineering colleagues. Nice to Have Experience with dynamic thermofluid systems: Propellant dynamics (slosh, flow instabilities, Pogo). Propellant level sensing and control strategies. Pumps, pressurisation systems, and cryogenics experience. Thermodynamics of 2‑phase, cryogenic, or refrigeration systems. Compressible gas modelling of pressure vessels, pressurisation systems, and piping. Knowledge of space thermal environments and modelling for orbital and ascent conditions. Thermal protection system design, specification, and implementation. Knowledge of HVAC system design and/or analysis. Experience with thermal‑modelling packages: Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, NX SST. Familiarity with SolidWorks CAD and PDM packages, emphasis on model interrogation and defeaturing for subsequent analyses. Experience in Python package development and modelling (git, CI, deployment). Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., MIL‑STD‑1540, GSFC‑STD‑7000, ECSS‑E‑HB‑32, NASA‑STD‑5001). Eligibility and Legal Requirements US Office Applicants Only: Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or be eligible for required authorizations under U.S. Department of State and/or Commerce regulations, including ITAR compliance. New Zealand Office Applicants Only: Must hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country, or an eligible dual citizenship. Background checks will be required. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a role in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected] . Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr