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Rocket Lab is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II – Structures and Mechanisms to join the Neutron program at Wallops Island, Virginia. Neutron is a medium-lift, highly reusable launch vehicle designed for mega constellations, high-assurance payloads, and human spaceflight.
In this role, you will own the design, build, testing, and commissioning of large mechanisms, launch pad structures, and transportation fixtures directly supporting the Neutron launch vehicle. You will work end-to-end on projects from conception through delivery, collaborating with technicians, test teams, and operations to ensure on-time, specification-compliant execution.
Key responsibilities include:
- Design of launch pad and test site fixed assets (test stands, launch mounts, gantries)
- Design of launch vehicle support equipment (transportation fixtures, lifting apparatuses, breakover fixtures)
- Design of large mechanisms (umbilicals, hold downs, strongbacks)
- 2D/3D CAD modeling using NX and other tools
- System sizing and analysis via hand calculation and numerical methods
- Risk assessments, system hazard analyses, and FMEAs
- Component selection and BOM maintenance
- Supplier and internal team coordination
- Failure investigations and root cause analysis
- Maintenance program development support
- Test plan development and execution to validate launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces
- On-site and remote support for installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting
- Test equipment design, development, and maintenance
You will bring an ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent), 2+ years of directly applicable experience in aerospace or industrial design/testing/operations, expertise in large structures and mechanisms, and proficiency in CAD software (NX, Solidworks). This is a hands-on engineering role ideal for someone who enjoys building real hardware for meaningful missions.
