Rocket Lab

Mechanical Test Engineer II

Rocket Lab$95K — $119K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in mechanical testing within aerospace or similar sector.
  • Proficiency in CAD software such as NX or SolidWorks.
  • Experience in environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).
  • Strong analytical skills with experience in data analysis tools like Python or MATLAB.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges.

Responsibilities

  • Lead qualification and acceptance test campaigns for satellite components and systems.
  • Design and implement mechanical test setups and data acquisition systems.
  • Analyze test data and produce detailed reports.
  • Collaborate with engineers to establish and meet test requirements.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues during testing procedures.
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians in testing processes.
  • Enhance test processes and infrastructure initiatives.

Benefits

  • Company stock options providing a stake in the company's success.
  • Industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • Paid vacation and sick leave alongside 11 paid holidays.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a company match.
  • Additional perks like subsidized EV charging and fitness benefits.
Full Job Description
MECHANICAL TEST ENGINEER II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Mechanical Test Engineer II is responsible for leading and executing test campaigns for satellite components and systems. This includes designing and implementing test setups, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with test requirements. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to develop and improve test processes.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
  • Lead the execution of qualification and acceptance test campaigns for satellite components and systems.
  • Design and implement test setups, including mechanical fixtures, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
  • Analyze test data and generate detailed test reports.
  • Collaborate with design and systems engineers to define test requirements and ensure compliance.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during testing.
  • Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of test processes and infrastructure.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS A MECHANICAL TEST ENGINEER II:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in mechanical testing, aerospace, or a related field.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, or similar).
  • Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with test automation and scripting.
  • Familiarity with Confluence and JIRA.
  • Experience leading small teams or projects.

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.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base 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 subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

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.

Total Compensation (base and equity)

$105,275-$136,625 USD

Base Salary

$95,200-$119,000 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 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.

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a private American aerospace manufacturer and small satellite launch service provider. The company was founded in 2006 by New Zealander Peter Beck. Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is designed to launch small payloads of up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit. The company has launched several successful missions and has contracts with NASA and other organizations. Rocket Lab has raised over $200 million in funding and has offices in the United States and New Zealand.
Learn more about Rocket Lab
Size
500 employees
Market Cap
$1.6 billion
Industry
Founded
2006
NASDAQ

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