Ground Systems Engineer II - Mechanical - Team X Verified today

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. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit. We are developing Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment.

The Role

Join our Ground Systems Engineering team and play a hands-on role in designing the infrastructure that supports Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. You'll work on real hardware, real launch pads, and real missions, gaining exposure across design, testing, and operations.

What You'll Do

Design and Engineering

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define project requirements
• Design mechanical systems including vehicle interfaces, structures, mechanisms, and fluid systems
• Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software
• Develop schematics, P&Ds, process diagrams, and BOMs
• Perform design trade studies and ensure compliance with engineering standards
• Work closely with vendors and internal production teams to optimize designs for manufacturability
• Contribute to risk assessments, hazard analyses, and FMEAs
• Produce technical documentation such as manuals, procedures, and work instructions

Integration and Test

• Support the development and execution of component- and system-level test plans
• Design and maintain test equipment
• Assist with post-test and post-flight data analysis
• Help maintain interface control documentation between launch vehicles and ground systems

Operations Support

• Work alongside test and operations teams to keep systems mission-ready
• Support installation, commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and launch operations, on-site or remotely

What You'll Bring

• Diploma or degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or CAD Engineering (or equivalent)
• Experience with structural design and industrial equipment
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

Nice to Have

• Experience with launch pad systems, or industries such as oil and gas, mining, or process engineering
• Exposure to fluid system design
• Experience with NX, Teamcenter, SolidWorks, or EPDM
• Familiarity with ASME, ASTM, AS/NZS, or NASA ground system standards
• 1 or more years of engineering design experience in aerospace or industrial sectors

Additional Information

• Domestic and international travel may be required
• Background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made. You must be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). 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.