Senior Systems Engineer

**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

You already know that Rocket Lab is a global leader in space launch. 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.

**SPACE SYSTEMS**

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA's Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we're going to Mars Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a ground-breaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.

We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we're unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we're only just getting started This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible - together.

**SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER**

Based out of Rocket Lab's NZ headquarters in Auckland, NZ, the Senior Systems Engineer gets to follow the entire lifecycle of spacecraft missions. Starting with conceptual design, subsystems sizing and requirements definition. Followed by the build phase during which you will oversee the build and test campaigns of the whole spacecraft, working across multidisciplinary teams to ready the spacecraft for flight. Once you have deemed the spacecraft ready for flight, you will be overseeing the launch campaign activities and supporting the mission operations as the spacecraft expert, ensuring a complete mission success for Rocket Lab and its customer.

Day-to-day you will be involved with:

- Define mission and system requirements to support mission objectives
- Develop technical budgets and systems analysis to ensure vehicle performance and reliability
- Design spacecraft architectures
- Define, Implement, and carry out subsystem and system level test plans and procedures for requirements verification and validation
- Guide technicians and determine integration flow for optimal spacecraft build and assembly
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop end-to-end solutions, for example
- Propulsion - All our spacecraft are equipped with advanced propulsion systems for delta-V capabilities, you will work closely with our fabulous propulsion team to integrate this capability into the spacecraft design
- Vehicle design - Our creative design team will require your input to ensure all requirements are being met, and come up with new ways to squeeze a spacecraft onto a small rocket
- GNC - Work with our one-in-a-million GNC team to integrate advanced sensors and actuators to perform state-of-the art maneuvers on orbit
- Provide program support to team leads and program managers and be a key technical interface between the Auckland, NZ and Long Beach, USA engineering teams

**YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS**:

- A Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
- Proven experience (5+ years) specifically on aerospace/satellite development programs, covering phases from initial design through on-orbit operations, including leadership roles in these projects.
- Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including attitude determination and control, spacecraft electrical power systems, space-ground communications, on-orbit command and da