Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I

About this role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I

Based out of Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I is responsible for overseeing the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Rocket Lab’s space vehicles. You’ll be expected to perform thermal modeling and data analysis while working closely with the test and design engineers to capture the vehicle’s thermal performance and provide input for design improvements. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles

• Conduct thermal design trade studies that successfully balance performance margins, resource use, risk, cost, and schedule

• Identify and resolve thermal design, acceptance, and performance issues for space vehicle components and assemblies

• Design and execute thermal tests for space vehicle components and assemblies

• Perform thermal model validation using test and in-flight data

• Liaise with all levels of program and engineering staff on thermal design and test matters, and support other teams/disciplines as necessary

• Identify and research potential vendors of thermal control materials

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering or other engineering degree

• 5+ years of thermal engineering experience

• Experience with spacecraft or satellite development programs

• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree

• Strong background in heat transfer

• Experience with thermal systems and passive thermal management techniques

• Familiarity using Siemens NX and Teamcenter, with emphasis on model interrogation and defeaturing for subsequent analyses

• Demonstrated experience with Thermal Desktop

• Experience with planning, execution, and data analysis of thermal balance tests

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

• Ability to work independently but also build strong working relationships with colleagues

• Experience with constant conductance and variable conductance heat pipes

• Experience working with multi-layer insulation: design, fabrication, installation, and test

• Experience with 0-D and 1-D thermal/fluid networks

• Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python and MATLAB

• Familiarity with thermal engineering tools such as NX Space Systems Thermal, ANSYS, SINDA, and THERMICA

• Knowledge of aspects of launch and on-orbit operations

• Familiarity with orbital mechanics and attitude dynamics related to thermal analysis

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. 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.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive 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 sub

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