M&P Engineer II

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

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 N...

Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains, including structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal systems. The Materials & Processes (M&P) Development Engineer II role focuses on the development, characterization, and qualification of materials and manufacturing processes for the Neutron laun...

Design elements including thermal protection systems, composites, metallic interfaces, and secondary structural elements, working closely with analysts to ensure designs are appropriately sized and structural & thermal requirements are met 
Develop and qualify materials and processes for primary and secondary structures, including metallics, composites, adhesives, and coatings
Support design teams with material selection and process recommendations to meet structural, thermal, and environmental requirements
Conduct material characterization, process validation, and operational oversight
Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including material/process specifications, test reports, and procedures
Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to manage, develop, and improve specifications and standards
Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to enable rapid development and production
Mentor and technically assist junior engineers
Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in a small, high-performing team focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by your technical expertise, ability to lead projects independently, and your ability to collaborate across teams to deliver results

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent qualification 
2+ years’ experience in materials and processes engineering, preferably in aerospace or high-reliability industries
Experience with material characterization techniques (e.g., mechanical testing, microscopy, NDT)
Demonstrated capability in the implementation of materials and process qualification activities
Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), SolidWorks, CATIA
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements
Strong understanding of composites engineering fundamentals (mechanics of materials, classical lamination theory, material property characterization, design best practices, analysis methods, and manufacturing processes) 
Knowledgeable in modelling and structural analysis
Experience in one of the following domain areas:
Cryogenic Systems
Thermal Protection Systems
Pressurized Systems  
Mechanical Moving Assemblies 
Fluid Systems
Instrumentation and Controls
Hands-on composites manufacturing experience