Development Engineer Ii

**ABOUT ROCKET LAB**

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights

**NEUTRON**

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

**DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER II**
Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (i.e. Propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (i.e. stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid (i.e. pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal (i.e. thermal protection) systems.

This role will work directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic and composites components & assemblies and to perform development & qualification tests, refine designs, and ensure Neutron's materials, components, and assemblies meet their functional and performance requirements. This role requires close work with more experienced engineers to deliver project contribution to the expectations of the company.

**WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO**:

- Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across the Neutron launch vehicle.
- Support the testing structures and mechanisms, including composites and metallic components, and integrated structural, mechanical and fluids assemblies;
- Develop test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process and document test data to verify functional and performance requirements;
- Develop and execute test activities to characterise structural materials, interfaces, and subcomponents
- Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies;
- Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace;
- Feed testing outcomes back into the design and manufacture process to promote continuous improvement;
- Engage with more experienced engineers across the team for ongoing mentorship and coaching, for both technical and behavioural skills.
- Prepare drawing packages & technical reports, ensuring manufacturability is considered throughout the design process
- Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies
- Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc.
- Support with the definition of design requirements
- Designing prototype parts
- Proactively raise issues related to quality and/or continuous improvement

**YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
- 5+ years designing high performance mechanical systems
- Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Fibersim (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA
- The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
- Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
- Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

**THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE**:

- Experience in one of the following domain areas:

- Cryogenic systems
- Pressurised systems
- Mechanical moving assemblies
- Fluid Systems
- Hands-on composites manufacturing experience
- Hands-on metallic fabrication experience

**WHAT TO EXPECT**

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our