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Salary: USD 95,200 - 119,000 / annual
Rocket Lab is seeking a Vehicle Integration Engineer II to support the development and launch of Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle. This role is based at the Middle River, MD facility and focuses on the integration, test, and launch operations of the Neutron launch vehicle.
You will work closely with the Neutron Vehicle Integration Manager and cross-functional teams to develop processes, design ground support tooling, and execute integration procedures for flight hardware and ground support equipment. Key responsibilities include:
- Develop concept of operations (con-ops) and design ground support tooling and processes for handling Neutron components and integrated stages
- Develop and execute procedures for integration of flight hardware and ground support equipment
- Support the Integration Manager in day-to-day execution of 1st and 2nd stage vehicle integration, propellant systems, avionics, and Autonomous Flight Termination System (AFTS)
- Develop and refine inspection, repair/retrofit, assembly, and system test procedures based on lessons learned
- Design high-level vehicle maintenance architecture including build flow and test operations for efficiency
- Execute vehicle system-level checkouts for initial and flown launch vehicles and components
- Develop work procedures and documentation, converting non-conformances into actionable improvements
- Maintain integrated planning documents covering launch vehicle configurations and work scope
- Design and develop tools and hardware to enable vehicle processing and testing
- Develop, build, and maintain Neutron processing facilities
- Collaborate with management, peers from other departments, and skilled technicians
- Manage multiple priorities while maintaining focus on project goals
The role involves both desk-based work (computer, technical documentation review) and hands-on facility work, including exposure to production environments with occasional noise, dust, and fumes.
QUALIFICATIONS (Required):
- Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or manufacturing engineering
- 2+ years of experience in building and testing hardware associated with launch vehicles and their environments
- Demonstrated proficiency in authoring comprehensive work instructions and procedures for assembly, test, and launch
- Proven ability to interface with multidisciplinary functions including mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems
QUALIFICATIONS (Preferred):
- Master of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent
- Experience developing and utilizing comprehensive work instructions and test procedures
- Direct experience with launch vehicle and/or launch vehicle hardware and subsystems (avionics, high-pressure gas, structures, electrical, mechanical)
- Experience building and testing complex assemblies at system and sub-system levels
- Demonstrated project management experience
IMPORTANT: This position requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or eligible authorization status due to ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance for space technology export.
