Lead, Vehicle Integration Engineer

Middle River, MD

Posted$124K to $171Kfirst seen Aug 27, 2026updated Sep 9, 2026

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archived Sep 9, 2026

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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. NEUTRON Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a cost-effective and highly reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with Electron and Space Systems programs. LEAD, VEHICLE INTEGRATION ENGINEER The Lead Vehicle Integration Engineer is responsible for delivering integrated vehicle modules to the vehicle integration facility and launch pad at Wallops Island. This position will lead a team of vehicle integration engineers and work with a team of technicians to plan, execute, and record integration activities in addition to performing integrated systems testing.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Develop plans for assembly and integration of vehicle components and systems including fluid systems, avionics, structures and mechanisms, thermal protection, and flight termination. Oversee and maintain scheduling of work cell activities on a weekly timescale and ensure alignment with high level programmatic milestones Coordinate with supporting teams such as GSE (Ground Systems Engineering) and GST (General Support Technicians) to ensure tooling, fixturing, lift equipment, and work platforms are ready and available for integration and test activities. Manage resources across different vehicle modules to best align with program milestones. Coordinate with other leads such as Development, Manufacturing Engineering, and Ground Systems Engineering to manage resources across the program. Mentor and develop team members to exemplify Rocket Lab’s core values while leading by example Provide technical guidance on developing work instructions, best technical practices, and contribute to developing curriculum for internal training programs Develop work cell layouts to ensure efficient flow of materials, best use of floor space, and appropriate communication between engineers and technicians Plan and execute integrated system testing for sub-assemblies and module level integrated systems. Contribute, develop, and own documentation to support internal quality systems and change management systems

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THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Master of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or manufacturing or equivalent Experience and demonstrated proficiency in developing and implementing comprehensive work instructions and test procedures Experience identifying, documenting, and resolving non-conformances, implementing engineering changes, and managing complex configurations Experience working directly with launch vehicle and/or launch vehicle hardware and subsystems including, avionics, high pressure gas, structures, electrical, and mechanical Demonstrated experience of Project Management principles in previous job experience(s) 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 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 medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and free snacks/drinks onsite. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Total Compensation (base and equity) $137,075 — $196,275 USD Base Salary $124,000 — $170,500 USD 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.

Lead, Vehicle Integration Engineer

The posting, in Rocket Lab's own words

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

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