Full-Time

Principal Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Posted on 1/16/2025

Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab USA

1,001-5,000 employees

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

Robotics & Automation
Aerospace
Defense

Compensation Overview

$140k - $220kAnnually

Senior, Expert

No H1B Sponsorship

Long Beach, CA, USA

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA.

US Citizenship Required

Category
Space & Rocket Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Required Skills
Product Management
Data Analysis
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
  • 12+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry
  • Experience supporting satellite and/or spacecraft development programs
Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain: Technical budgets for vehicle performance, System requirements and verification techniques, Simulations and analysis across vehicle functions, Test methods and data analysis
  • Lead and own technical development of spacecraft missions
  • Assist with program and product management
  • Develop, in collaboration with team members, interface specifications, CONOPS definition, and other design documents
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
  • Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including: attitude determination and control (ADCS), electrical power systems (EPS), space-ground communications, on-orbit command and data handling (C&DH), and thermal control
  • Thorough understanding of the space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, and STK
  • Experience with requirement management tools such as JAMA or DOORS
  • Experience with satellite operations
  • Experience with testing electrical subsystems and assemblies, thermal vacuum or random vibration, and hardware-in-the loop (HITL) testing
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment with competing priorities

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit for various sectors. Rocket Lab differentiates itself by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, making it more affordable and efficient compared to competitors. The company's goal is to simplify and enhance access to space for both public and private organizations, supporting a wide range of applications from national security to climate monitoring.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$713.3M

Headquarters

Long Beach, California

Founded

2006

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

0%

1 year growth

0%

2 year growth

0%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Collaboration with Air Force Research Lab could lead to more defense contracts.
  • Operational efficiency shown by two launches in 24 hours from different hemispheres.
  • Investment by Pier 88 indicates strong investor confidence in Rocket Lab's growth.

What critics are saying

  • Increased competition from SpaceX as Rocket Lab develops the Neutron rocket.
  • Potential delays in Virginia launch site could impact schedules and revenue.
  • Reliance on New Zealand site poses risks from geopolitical tensions or natural disasters.

What makes Rocket Lab USA unique

  • Rocket Lab's Electron is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually.
  • Photon platform supports NASA missions to the Moon, Mars, and private Venus missions.
  • Neutron rocket development positions Rocket Lab as a competitor in heavy-lift launches.

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Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Paid Holidays

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Flexible Spending Account

Company Equity

Wellness Program

Phone/Internet Stipend

Childcare Support

Gym Membership

Employee Discounts

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Professional Development Budget

Conference Attendance Budget

Flexible Work Hours

Hybrid Work Options