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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Development Engineer to join the Neutron team, responsible for bringing the company's new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. The Neutron program encompasses designing and testing structures and components, firing Archimedes engines, and setting up launch pads and test sites across the United States.
As a Senior Development Engineer, you will deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural systems (propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical systems (stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid systems (pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal systems (thermal protection). You will work directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic components and assemblies, and perform development and qualification tests to refine designs and ensure materials, components, and assemblies meet functional and performance requirements.
Key responsibilities include: producing and rapidly iterating conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across the Neutron launch vehicle; leading the testing of structures and mechanisms, including metallic components and integrated structural, mechanical, and fluids assemblies; developing test plans, monitoring test activities, and post-processing and documenting test data to verify functional and performance requirements; developing and executing test activities to characterize structural materials, interfaces, and subcomponents; producing test jigs and fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing; proactively identifying and solving technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace; feeding testing outcomes back into the design and manufacture process to promote continuous improvement; and mentoring and technically assisting junior engineers.
The role is currently seeking candidates with experience in composites, moving mechanical assemblies, and metallic structures.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
- 5+ years developing and [section omitted in source text]
