ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

As a Mechanical Engineer I, based at Rocket Lab’s site in Silver Spring, Maryland, you will be part of a team dedicated to producing innovative spaceflight mechanism concepts, specifically separation systems. You will play a critical role in designing, building, and optimizing the products and processes that bring these ideas to life while continuously driving improvements for faster, better, smarter ways to build.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

Hands-on assembly and physical production of mechanical space systems
Identify and implement quality and process-related initiatives and improvements
Improve electro-mechanical space systems, including design, prototyping, production, and test
Analysis of mechanical systems via classical and computer methods • Consult with machinists and vendors to assure proper manufacture of components
Inspection and quality control of machined parts
Travel occasionally to meet with customers regarding products

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, computer, electrical, mechanical, robotics, or systems engineering
Understanding of electrical circuitry
Capacity to comply with the federally mandated of U.S. export control laws

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

Advanced degree in aerospace, computer, electrical, mechanical, robotics, or systems engineering
2+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace or manufacturing industry
Mechanically inclined and able to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
Passion for mechanisms and structures
Strong analytical mindset
Self-motivated
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Attention to detail
Ability to schedule and work on multiple projects concurrently
Ability to work collaboratively with other engineers
Experience with common manufacturing processes (e.g. CNC, turning, wire EDM, and 3D printing)

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: flex schedule, free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week, and free snacks/drinks.