Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer (pipeline)
As a Senior or Principal Propulsion Engineer at Rocket Lab, you will be integral to the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a key component of the Neutron rocket program. This role involves taking ownership of engine subsystems and operations, driving design, analysis, testing, and ensuring operational readiness. You will work within a dynamic team dedicated to advancing Rocket Lab's mission of delivering responsive and reliable access to space.
Your primary responsibilities will include designing, analyzing, testing, and re-flying next-generation propulsion hardware to ensure operational readiness and flight success. You will develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes. Collaboration across engineering disciplines is essential to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Additionally, you will generate high-level plans, prioritize tasks across teams, resolve competing priorities, and mentor engineers to foster technical growth and collaboration.
The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field. For the Senior Propulsion Engineer I position, a minimum of 5 years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations is required. For Senior Propulsion Engineer II, 8+ years of experience is necessary, and for the Principal Propulsion Engineer role, 12+ years of experience is expected. A strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture is essential. Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews is also required.
Rocket Lab offers a competitive compensation package, with base salaries ranging from $116,000 to $225,000, depending on experience and position level. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package, including top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, 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. Additional perks include a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Joining Rocket Lab means becoming part of a pioneering team dedicated to opening access to space. The company fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of space technology and want to contribute to missions that have a global impact, this is the opportunity for you.