Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

Long Beach, CA

first seen Sep 2, 2026updated Sep 2, 2026

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The posting, in Rocket Lab's own words

archived Sep 2, 2026

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 Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. SENIOR PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER I Based out of Rocket Lab's our headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Senior Propulsion Design Engineer is responsible for the design of engine components (combustion chambers, turbo machinery, engine layout, etc.) for the Archimedes Engine. In this role you’ll have the opportunity to design, analyze and build hardware. You will support the Neutron and Archimedes teams with deliverables required to facilitate engine development and advance the program forward.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Work with technical subject matter experts to design engine systems to meet performance, quality and manufacturability requirements. Develop and own mechanical design solutions for propulsion systems. Perform trade studies and design reviews with analysts, manufacturing engineers and subject matter experts from concept to production. Work with internal and external fabrication teams to bring hardware from design to fruition QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER I: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field 5+ years of experience in relevant engineering field. Strong foundation in heat transfer, fluids and structural mechanics. Proficiency in finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench or similar packages. Mastery of mechanical design principles. Strong understanding of design for manufacturing and GD&T principles. Prior experience developing and maintaining engineering design best practices Prior experience developing parts, assemblies or systems from concept to production.

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THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

High proficiency in GD&T. Proficiency in using ANSYS Workbench Proficiency in using StarCCM+ or similar CFD software packages. Prior experience with design of additively manufactured rocket engine components. Experience with propulsion systems design, analysis, test, operations, and/or manufacturing Experience with best practices for design, qualification and production of aerospace hardware. Experience working in a fast-paced development program. 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 plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts. 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) $135,475 — $211,475 USD Base Salary $115,200 — $172,800 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.

Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

The posting, in Rocket Lab's own words

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: