Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Systems Engineer I - Secret ClearanceRocket 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 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.We're seeking a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Systems Engineer I for our propulsion engineering team based out of Long Beach, CA. As a Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer, you are responsible for system-level and component-level ownership of space systems propulsion and fluidic development. These teams support our Space Systems division, and lead cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers.What You'll Get To Do:Owning development of new or existing products or systems, acting as technical lead to guide team through end-to-end development processConceptual and detailed performance calculations, systems modelling, analysis, and system designsRequirements gathering, definition, and managementSystems engineering activities and leadership within the teamTest planning, setup, instrumentation, execution, and data analysisCommunicating with project stakeholders internal and external to the teamTechnical risk-based decision making to the right/best solution when faced with an engineering challengeProject management including schedule building and maintenance, identifying top priority items, tasking of other engineers and technicians, and communication of status to leadership and other teamsMentorship and coaching of people within the team on technical and professional developmentDefining and maintaining standard of excellence for their team through documentation, training, coaching, and review of others' workContributing to engineering process development and documentation at Rocket Lab related to areas of experienceYou'll Bring These Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in engineering (aerospace, mechanical, mechatronics, or other technical discipline)5+ years of experience in propulsion system development, or other high-performance fieldActive Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibilityUS citizenship is required, due to program requirementsExpertise in propulsion system modelling, static and transient analysis, and model validation using test data software such as Amesim, EcosimPro, Simulink, or SimscapeExperience with end-to-end development process, including gathering requirements, detailed design, qualification, production, and acceptance testingExperience with all steps in the Systems Engineering V and risk-based decision makingExperience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemicalThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:A genuine passion for engineering, curious mindset, and willingness to learnDemonstrated hands-on engineering skills, inside or outside the workplaceComfortable working with high levels of ambiguityAbility to make decisions using basic engineering principles, available literature and standards, technical risk assessments, test data, and physics-based modelsPractice in identifying the necessary steps to achieve high level technical goals, scheduling them in a plan, and managing delivery against that planExperience with JamaExcellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environmentCapabilities using Python for data manipulation and post-processingDetailed mechanical design experience using NX (preferred) or equivalent industry standard CAD softwareExperience with GD&T and engineering drawingsExperience using Product Lifecycle Management software such as Teamcenter (preferred), Windchill, or similarExperience using National Instruments data acquisition systemsExperience with testing and troubleshooting flight hardwareMaster's or PhDThis 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)$115,000 - $158,000 USDWhat 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 thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.