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Rocket Lab is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II, Mechanical to join its Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. This role is central to the design, build, and maintenance of critical test facilities supporting the Archimedes rocket engine and Neutron launch vehicles.
You will collaborate closely with Engine Propulsion and Test Operations teams to develop requirements for test stand design. Your responsibilities span mechanical design and build, instrumentation, and test site operations. You will maintain and upgrade critical test facilities to meet the needs of the Archimedes engine test program, and may directly support Engine hardware and test operations.
Key responsibilities include:
- Design, build, and integrate critical test systems to support all test objectives and requirements
- Work with technicians and engineers to troubleshoot and resolve facility and test operations issues
- Develop maintenance protocols for new and existing facility infrastructure
- Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
- Work with test operators to complete design, build, installation, and checkout of facility systems
- Maintain cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensure component-level verifications, and meet internal standards
You will work independently in support of overall test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts, becoming skilled in Ground Systems engineering while operating under pressure and tight deadlines.
Note: This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, with occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
IMPORTANT: Due to ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee/asylee, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or Commerce.
QUALIFICATIONS (Required):
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or other technical discipline
- 2+ years of experience in rocket engine test stand or launch complex design and build
- Working knowledge of Siemens NX and Teamcenter
- Familiarity with ASME B31.1
QUALIFICATIONS (Nice to Have):
- Experience with NASA GFSSP, Ansys Fluent, and CAESAR
- Experience with JIRA for work tracking and scheduling
- Broad general background in engineering discipline with ability to design systems and develop computer tools for automation or analysis
- Experience designing or operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
- Experience in weld design and inspection
- Background demonstrating personal development (pilot training, scouting, sports teams, especially leadership roles)
- Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
- Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators, and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
- Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided
