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Principal Engineer

Rocket LabAuckland, Auckland, New Zealand

9 days ago

Job description

Rocket Lab Space Systems is building the future of space. We design and build spacecraft that do what others can’t, from high‑performance satellites to full constellations. If you’re ready to work with a world‑class team on bold space missions, we’re just getting started.

Principal Mechanisms Engineer – Space Systems

At Rocket Lab, we’re redefining what’s possible in space — from reliable Electron launches and deep space missions with NASA to our upcoming Neutron rocket designed to power mega‑constellations. To support this momentum, we’re expanding our Space Systems team and looking for a Principal Mechanisms Engineer to lead the design, development, and qualification of world‑class ADCS actuators at scale.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO :

Own the full life cycle of reaction wheel development, from requirements to on‑orbit commissioning.
Provide expert technical support to internal mission teams and global customers.
Lead failure investigations, non‑conformance reviews, and continuous improvement across production.
Design, verify, and validate systems through environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, shock, EMC).
Develop and implement advanced testing methodologies.
Mentor junior engineers and drive technical knowledge transfer across teams.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS :

Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering (or a related field), with over 8 years of proven experience in developing brushless electric motors, reaction wheels, momentum wheels, or control moment gyroscopes (CMGs).

Proven leadership in risk management and material review boards, collaborating directly with customers to resolve issues.

Proven ability to lead products from requirements definition through to on‑orbit commissioning.

Passionate about mentoring junior engineers and developing technical training materials.

Experience with aerospace and spaceflight standards including NASA‑STD‑5017, ECSS‑E‑ST‑3301C, SMC‑S‑016, and AS9100 quality systems.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE :

Bearing preload techniques and verification

Electrically commutated motors and drive topologies

Rotor dynamics and imbalance characterization

Micro‑vibration analysis and mitigation

Vacuum tribology, including lubricants for prolonged space operation

Bearing material selection and load capacity analysis

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE :

Hands‑on experience with on‑orbit anomaly investigations and failure / root cause analysis.

Strong background in space‑grade electronics, including magnetics design and brushless motor drive circuits.

Knowledge of control systems, estimators, and various speed / position encoders used in spacecraft mechanisms.

Skilled in requirements management and preparing compliance matrices to ensure mission alignment.

Experienced in planning, executing, and reporting development, acceptance, and qualification testing.

Proficient in Python for statistical analysis of large production datasets.

Apply now and make your mark at Rocket Lab!

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Principal Engineer • Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand