Structural Analyst II / Senior Structural Analyst I

About this role

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.

STRUCTURAL ANALYST II / SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST  I

The Structural Analyst position is based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA. The candidate will support a high performing team of propulsion engineers with a broad range of expertise covering rocket engine combustion devices, turbomachinery, and other hardware . You will support the Neutron program and Propulsion department with solutions to tough technical problems and drive the vehicle design using analytical methods. 

Please note: this position can be hired at the Structural Analyst II or Senior Structural Analyst I level. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:    

• Create system, subassemblies, and individual parts analytical models. 

• Perform multiphysics structural, thermal, vibration, fatigue, and fracture analyses. 

• Collaborate with the design team to finalize hardware designs to meet vehicle requirements. 

• Generate and maintain clear documentation of all performed analyses, including inputs, methods, and results to ensure proper communication during hardware reviews and qualification. 

• Support stage, engine and sub-system testing through data review and provide recommendations based on data and analysis. 

• Develop standard practices for structural analysis and common hand calculations to expedite hardware development. 

• Provide continued direction to the engineering team on highest value analysis and results deliverable schedule as the program evolves. 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS STRUCTURAL ANALYST II:     

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field.

• 2+ years of experience performing thermal, structural and vibration analysis for aerospace hardware. 

• Strong foundation in thermal, structural, vibration and life assessment analysis best practices. 

• Strong foundation in ductile and brittle material failure theories. 

• Familiarity with instrumenting hardware using strain gauges, thermocouples, and accelerometers to anchor FEM results.

• Proficiency in finite element analysis using commercially available software packages.

• Proficiency using one or more of the following programming languages: Python, Matlab, VBA, and/or C++ 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I:   

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field.

• 5+ years of experience performing thermal, structural and vibration analysis for aerospace hardware. 

• Mastery in thermal, structural, vibration and life assessment analysis best practices. 

• Mastery in ductile and brittle material failure theories. 

• Prior experience instrumenting hardware using strain gauges, thermocouples, and accelerometers to anchor FEM results. 

• Proficiency in finite element analysis using commercially available software packages.

• Proficiency using one or more of the following programming languages: Python, Matlab, VBA, and/or C++ 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:    

• Graduate degree with 3+ years of experience.

• Proficiency using ANSYS Workbench and NASGRO. 

• Familiarity with liquid engine qualification and certification using NASA-STDs 5012, 5019 

• Prior experience analyzing rocket engine combustion devices and turbo pump components. 

• Experience with supporting failure investigations 

• Experience with additively manufactured materials, part design and analysis 

• 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

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.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: 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, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only) $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 thriv

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