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Rocket Lab is seeking a Propulsion Design Engineer II to join the Neutron team at its Long Beach headquarters. Neutron is Rocket Lab's new large-lift rocket program, and the Archimedes engine is its primary propulsion system.
In this role, you will design engine components including combustion chambers, turbomachinery, and engine layouts for the Archimedes engine. You'll work alongside technical subject matter experts to develop mechanical design solutions that meet performance, quality, and manufacturability requirements. Your responsibilities include performing trade studies, leading design reviews with analysts and manufacturing engineers, and collaborating with internal and external fabrication teams to transition designs from concept through production.
You'll own mechanical design solutions for propulsion systems and support the broader Neutron and Archimedes programs with critical deliverables that advance engine development. This is a hands-on role combining design, analysis, and hardware build experience.
Required qualifications include a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field, plus 2+ years of relevant engineering experience. You must have a strong foundation in heat transfer, fluids, and structural mechanics, with proficiency in finite element analysis (ANSYS Workbench or equivalent). Mastery of mechanical design principles, design for manufacturing, and GD&T is essential, along with demonstrated experience developing parts, assemblies, or systems from concept to production.
Nice-to-have qualifications include high proficiency in GD&T, experience with CFD software (StarCCM+), additively manufactured rocket engine components, propulsion systems design and manufacturing, aerospace hardware best practices, and experience in fast-paced development programs.
Rocket Lab offers competitive base pay plus company stock as part of total compensation. Benefits include an industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (15% discount), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, zero-cost HDHP with HSA match), dental and vision, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) with company match, subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers, and complimentary snacks and beverages.
