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Rocket Lab is seeking a Principal Stage Fluids Engineer to own the design, build, test, and review of fluid systems across the Neutron launch vehicle. This role is part of the Neutron team, responsible for bringing the new large rocket and its launch and test sites to life.
You will design plumbing systems, components, and their secondary structures while providing technical feedback to peers on designs, drawings, and methodology. Your responsibilities include analyzing these systems in the harsh and dynamic environments of launch, reviewing critical structural analysis of fluid components, and modeling systems to characterize and predict behavior across all operational conditions.
Key duties encompass testing and qualifying systems and components, managing requirements and implementation in the larger vehicle context, integrating hardware into the vehicle, and reviewing data from component, system, and vehicle-level testing to optimize future designs. You will collaborate extensively with propulsion, structures, mechanical, operations, and flight software teams to develop and define vehicle functions.
You will also create tools to enhance the team's analysis capabilities and streamline workflow, set standards for design, production, and testing processes, and mentor peers to strengthen the overall team. This is a hands-on role where you'll contribute to making aircraft-like reusability and reliability routine for a new large rocket.
Required qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant discipline, 12+ years in hardware-rich environments, and experience with fluid components design (valves, pressure vessels, flex elements, fittings). You must demonstrate proficiency with DfM/DfAM, machining and welding processes, mechanical drafting, and GD&T.
Preferred qualifications include 8+ years in fast-paced aerospace environments, understanding of aerospace design constraints (mass minimization, manufacturability, function, cost), experience with cryogenic systems (oxygen, methane), proficiency in Siemens NX and Teamcenter, and familiarity with aerospace standards (AS9100, JIRA workflows).
