Senior Payload Integration Engineer I

Senior Payload Integration Engineer I

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced payload integration engineer with previous launch vehicle or spacecraft integration experience. This role will work under the direction of the Team Lead for Payload Integration. The candidate must have demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: spacecraft or launch vehicle integration, systems engineering, and/or electrical/mechanical systems.

This candidate will interface with spacecraft customer integration teams and direct and perform tasks associated with the physical payload integration to the Electron and HASTE launch vehicle. This role requires a candidate who works well with a multidisciplinary team and can hold their own when presented with technical challenges in front of both internal and external customers. The position is based in Long Beach, CA at Rocket Lab Headquarters, but requires frequent travel to customers and launch sites worldwide.

Performs hands-on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser, and launch vehicle integration

Assists management in on-site integration planning and performance of daily coordination meetings during launch site integration periods.

Provides inputs for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD)

Ability to create and execute assembly integration and test instructions

Provide customer support to answer questions with internal technical staff as required

Remain in constant contact with engineering staff regarding mechanical and electrical design needs based on mission requirements for the spacecraft integration.

Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline and 5+years of applicable experience

Active US Government security clearance Secret or TS/SCI

Previous launch vehicle or space hardware integration experience

Demonstrated ability to understand technical constraints relative to payload integration

Advanced presentation and technical writing skills

Ability to travel to launch sites and customer sites including overseas (New Zealand and others)

Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred

Solid interpersonal and organizational skills

Experience with CubeSats, SmallSats, or other small space payloads

Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings

Ability to perform electrical and mechanical testing

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus

Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing

Must be physically able to commute to buildings

Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise