Senior Mechanical Engineer II/Principal, Space Payloads - Top Secret Clearance

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer II or Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team in Tucson, AZ. This role involves supporting advanced space payload and internal research and development programs, contributing to the design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. The position requires an active Top Secret clearance and offers the opportunity to work on mission-critical solutions for prototype and production flight hardware.

Key responsibilities include producing complex mechanical designs for various hardware projects, collaborating with machine shops and vendors for fabrication, overseeing integration and testing of designs, and troubleshooting issues in the lab. The engineer will also proactively complete tasks with minimal direction, effectively communicate with supervisors, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines, and contribute significantly to program and customer meetings and reviews.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, an active DoD Top Secret clearance, and extensive mechanical design experience on space and/or optical programs—8+ years for the Senior Mechanical Engineer II level and 12+ years for the Principal Mechanical Engineer level. Strong computer skills, experience with CAD modeling and drawing, and the ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation are essential.

Rocket Lab offers a dynamic work environment where employees tackle challenging projects and make a significant impact on the future of space. The company values collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Employees have the opportunity to work on high-visibility roles, manage time and resources to meet deadlines, and contribute to groundbreaking space missions.