Development Engineer I

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 to 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 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, while we 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 components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. About the Team The ISP team is at the forefront of developing and delivering flight‑ready propulsion systems for space vehicles. From system‑level ownership to component‑level innovation, we design, build, and test propulsion systems that power humanity’s exploration of the cosmos. Our past successes include the Curie and HyperCurie engines, and we’re currently developing the propulsion system for ESCAPADE, a NASA mission to Mars. Collaboration is key, and we work closely with teams across Rocket Lab, including GNC, Manufacturing Engineering, Flight Software, and more. About the Role As a Development Engineer I, you’ll play a critical role in the upkeep and development of spacecraft propulsion systems. You’ll work alongside talented engineers, technicians, and analysts to deliver high‑quality products that meet mission requirements. From hands‑on testing to detailed design work, you’ll be involved in every stage of the development lifecycle. What You’ll Do Own the propulsion design, engineering BOM, manufacturing communication, testing requirements, and lifecycle maintenance of propulsion systems. Build, test, and integrate sensitive hardware alongside technicians and engineers. Interface with cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless integration and operation of propulsion systems. Create and review technical documents, ensuring accuracy and clarity. Plan and execute long‑term projects, raising support requests and escalating blockers as needed. Identify risks, escalating appropriately, and contribute to mitigation strategies. What We’re Looking For Essential Skills & Experience Strong sense of ownership and rigorous thinking Curiosity and eagerness to learn Excellent grasp of mechanical engineering fundamentals Hands‑on experience building or testing mechanical or electromechanical components/systems Proven track record of delivering successful engineering projects from conception to operation 1+ years of industry experience Engineering degree Desirable Skills & Experience Experience with rocket engines, fluid components (e.g., regulators, valves), or spacecraft propulsion systems Expertise in one or more of the following: test planning, execution, data analysis, and reporting Detailed mechanical design using CAD Systems engineering activities (e.g., requirement gathering, interface control) Hardware integration Thermofluid or structural analysis Important Information 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. Equal Employment Opportunity 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]. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr