Principal Propulsion Engineer, Neutron

Rocket Lab Rocket Lab is a vertically integrated provider of small launch services, satellites, and spacecraft components. Our mission is to open access to space to improve life on Earth. Our team is over 1,300 people strong and we’re adding to it every week. Collaboration is at our core – every idea is heard, and everyone makes a difference. Teams are nimble, decisions are made quickly, and we are action oriented. PRINCIPALPROPULSION ENGINEER, NEUTRON Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. We are rapidly growing our team at all sites globally to develop and get a vehicle to the pad in 2024. If you want to join a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity. As the Principal Propulsion Engineer  you are responsible for guiding multi-disciplinary teams to ensure the propulsion system meets functional, performance and safety requirements. You will be the focal point aligning requirements, operational specifications and test parameters between engine sub-systems and the rest of the launch vehicle. Developing a propulsion type system in a fast-paced environment with a successful outcome is important experience to bring to this role. Ongoing flexibility to reach a successful verification of the final product from evolving requirements will be needed. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Work with technical subject matter experts to design engine systems to performance, quality and manufacturability requirements. Work on mechanical designs for the propulsion systems. Perform trade studies with analysts, manufacturing engineers and subject matter experts for concept designs. Work with internal and external fabrication teams to bring hardware from design to fruition. SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 10+ years aerospace’ industry experience Engineering degree Has demonstrated skills within the rocket propulsion industry where applicable to deliver required company outcomes Proven track record of leading a team to deliver multiple complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation System operating knowledge with cryogenic liquid and hot gas fluid flows through mechanical systems with ancillary electrical systems Strong knowledge and understanding of propulsion systems and componentry including valves, sensor types, signals and uncertainties in system function   The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.  In addition to base salary, Rocket Lab offers a comprehensive total compensation offer package based on individual qualifications and experience, including company stock. Employees will also be eligible for medical, dental, vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plan options, and to purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Pay Range (CA Only) $140,000 — $200,000 USD Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S Department of State. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.  Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here  ITAR Regulations.