Senior Fluid Test Engineer

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

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. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with clean sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

SENIOR FLUID TEST ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Fluid Test Engineer is responsible for bringing test stands into the real world and assuring they meet the stringent requirements needed for the Neutron program. You will support the Director of Manufacturing and Fluid Systems organization by standing up new test stands, supporting component designs early, and leading assembly and testing of Neutron stands.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead design & build of the Neutron & Archimedes test area in Long Beach
• Develop software for environmental testing and simulation
• Own assembly, checkouts and development testing of Neutron testing stands
• Develop the procedures & processes for component/engine tests that will form the baseline for the Neutron program into the future
• Lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations, when required
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances
• Collaborate with the quality team to identify and drive quality-related initiatives and improvements
• Perform structured root cause analysis of in-process failures
• Liaison between production, quality, supply chain and design engineering staff for complex problem solving and process changes
• Identify, plan and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet production requirements, including preparation of business cases
• Lead the continuous improvement process via Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniques
• Develop, introduce, and maintain new planning, production, quality, ERP, data collection and analysis, and other processes where none exist

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• 5+ years experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or while undergoing development and qualification testing
• Experience developing and building safe, high pressure, pneumatic, hydrostatic, and cryogenic test stands
• Experience with instrumentation, controls, and data acquisition systems

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• 8+ years experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar
• Experience with aerospace component design, build & testing
• Previous history of planning, building, activating & operating component test stands for development, qualification and production acceptance testing
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components
• Experience with LabVIEW, Python, C, C++, MATLAB
• Extensive experience using fundamentals of fluid and structural mechanics to solve component issues in a fast-paced environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.
• Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.