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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer I to join the Space Systems division in Long Beach, CA. This role supports the development of spacecraft, payloads, and subsystems for civil, commercial, and defense missions, including work with NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.
In this position, you will develop and maintain technical budgets for vehicle performance, define system requirements and verification techniques, create simulations and analysis across vehicle functions, and develop test methods and data analysis approaches. You will lead and own the technical development of spacecraft missions, assist with program and product management, and collaborate with team members on interface specifications, CONOPS definitions, and design documentation.
You will work hands-on with flight hardware and drive the technical development of Space Systems missions. The role involves working with complex spacecraft subsystems including attitude determination and control (ADCS), electrical power systems (EPS), space-ground communications, command and data handling (C&DH), and thermal control systems.
Required qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in engineering (aerospace, electrical, mechanical, software, computer, or related discipline), 5+ years of aerospace industry experience, and experience supporting satellite or spacecraft development programs. An active Secret Clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI is required.
Desirable qualifications include a Master's or PhD in engineering, deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems and orbital mechanics, proficiency with MATLAB, Python, and STK, experience with requirement management tools (JAMA, DOORS), satellite operations experience, and hands-on testing experience with electrical subsystems, thermal vacuum testing, and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
