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Rocket Lab is seeking a Lead Propulsion Test Engineer to manage the team and engineering work for the Archimedes engine testing program at Stennis Test Center. This role is central to the Neutron medium-lift launch vehicle development—a highly reusable platform designed to deliver mega constellations, high-assurance payloads, and human spaceflight capabilities.
You will serve as the manager of a team of engineers and technicians responsible for liquid rocket engine propulsion testing. Your responsibilities include generating and executing detailed test procedures, reviewing and interpreting test data for facility health and engine performance, specifying and procuring components and propellants, and managing vendors and subcontractors. You will plan and oversee facility schedules, support requirements development with the propulsion design team, establish requirements for new facility capabilities, and contribute to configuration management, quality, cost, and process control. Safety advocacy for the test team and test stand operations is a critical aspect of this role.
Required qualifications include 5+ years of industry experience, an engineering degree, and demonstrated skills in the rocket propulsion industry. You must have a proven track record of leading teams to deliver multiple complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation. Broad experience in propulsion testing and operations is essential, including expertise in areas such as structural design and analysis, cryogenics systems design, high-pressure gas systems design, or high-fidelity analytical modeling including dynamic fluid models.
Desirable qualifications include a Master's or PhD in an engineering discipline, direct experience with liquid natural gas or liquid methane as rocket propellants, demonstrated excellence in leading test programs from concept to completion, background in sub-component to full flight system testing, software development for data acquisition and control systems, and working knowledge of complex IT systems associated with propulsion testing.
The 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.
