Team Lead - Neutron Thrust Module

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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!

TEAM LEAD - NEUTRON THRUST MODULE

Rocket Lab seeks a Team Lead to build Neutron: Rocket Lab’s medium lift, reusable launch vehicle capable of human spaceflight.

Neutron’s Mechanical workstream delivers across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (i.e. Propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (i.e. stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid (i.e. pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal (i.e. thermal protection) systems.

As a Team Lead you will manage a talented group of mechanical development engineers, and be responsible for the delivery of key mechanical systems for the vehicle: owning your designs from concept to completion & launch.

Day to day, your key responsibilities will include:

• Lead the overall delivery of Neutron mechanical system(s) across their lifecycle: including conceptual & critical design, development test, qualification, integration, and operational support;
• Ensure successful delivery of key engineering projects through effective project management: including setup, monitoring, and control of schedule, budget, resource, & technical risk;
• Actively collaborate between departments (i.e. supply chain, quality, production) & teams (i.e. Fluids, Avionics, Propulsion) to ensure Program activities are appropriately prioritised;
• Manage, mentor, and support direct reports to be motivated, effective, and efficient in their roles.
• Coordinate activities between design, test and analysis engineers to develop & mature concepts, and manufacturing engineers to identify suitable materials, and define pragmatic build processes;
• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed at pace;

Successful candidates in this role will thrive in ambiguity, and are excited to work in a small, high performing team focused on continued learning and growth. This position is ideal for an experienced engineer keen to lead projects from conceptual design through to integration and launch.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar field
• 5+ years’ experience within a high-performance industry environment (Aerospace, aviation, automotive, marine or equivalent)
• Proven track record of leading a team to deliver complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation
• The ability to work to deadlines within a high-pressure environment
• Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues
• Experience working on one or more of the areas

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA, or similar
• Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software such as Teamcenter (preferred), Windchill, or similar

ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground breaking technology
• An employee stock purchase program
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks
• Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
• Additional parental leave entitlements
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year

If the above sounds like you apply now!

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.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

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.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

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.