Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Systems Engineer II - Secret Clearance
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$132k–$220k/yr
Senior$9.1B raised
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Systems engineering, Performance calculations, Systems modelling, Requirements management
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system modelling, Static analysis, Transient analysis, Amesim, EcosimPro
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Systems engineering, Performance calculations, Systems modelling, Test planning
At Relativity Space, we’re building rockets to serve today’s needs and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that’s ju…
Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Components Engineer II
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$132k–$220k/yr
Senior$9.1B raised
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Mechanical design, CAD, NX, Teamcenter
Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Components Engineer I
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$115k–$173k/yr
Senior$9.1B raised
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Mechanical design, CAD, NX, Teamcenter
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Systems engineering, Electric propulsion, Performance calculations, Systems modelling
At Relativity Space, we’re building rockets to serve today’s needs and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that’s ju…
Skills: Electronics Design, High Speed Serial Interfaces, Board Bring-up, Design Verification, eCAD
At Relativity Space, we’re building rockets to serve today’s needs and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that’s ju…
At Relativity Space, we’re building rockets to serve today’s needs and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that’s ju…
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, Systems engineering, Performance calculations, Systems modelling, Amesim
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion Systems, Systems Engineering, Performance Calculations, Systems Modelling, Test Planning
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 f…
Skills: Propulsion system development, CAD, NX, Teamcenter, Fluidic development
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 f…
Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous huma…
Skills: Thermal control systems, Fluid systems, Test engineering, Root cause analysis, Aerospace engineering
Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous huma…
Skills: Partnership management, Business development, Project management, Marketing, Communications
Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous huma…
Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous huma…
Skills: Fluid systems, Environmental control systems, Systems engineering, Hardware fabrication, Assembly
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 f…
Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and low-cost approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to ensure a continuous huma…
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$132k–$220k/yr
Full-time
bachelor degree, postgraduate degree
Company stock, Employee stock purchase program, Medical plans, Dental coverage, Vision coverage, Paid vacation
Posted 10d ago
~40 hrs/week
Responsibilities
The Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer will lead the end-to-end development of space systems propulsion and fluidic components. Responsibilities include system modelling, performance analysis, test execution, and providing technical leadership to the engineering team.
Requirements
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and possess at least 8 years of experience in propulsion system development. An active Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibility and US citizenship are mandatory requirements.
Full job description
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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. 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.
Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.
SENIOR SPACECRAFT PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER II - SECRET CLEARANCE
We're seeking a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Systems Engineer II 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 process
Conceptual and detailed performance calculations, systems modelling, analysis, and system designs
Requirements gathering, definition, and management
Systems engineering activities and leadership within the team
Test planning, setup, instrumentation, execution, and data analysis
Communicating with project stakeholders internal and external to the team
Technical risk-based decision making to the right/best solution when faced with an engineering challenge
Project management including schedule building and maintenance, identifying top priority items, tasking of other engineers and technicians, and communication of status to leadership and other teams
Mentorship and coaching of people within the team on technical and professional development
Defining and maintaining standard of excellence for their team through documentation, training, coaching, and review of others’ work
Contributing to engineering process development and documentation at Rocket Lab related to areas of experience
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (aerospace, mechanical, mechatronics, or other technical discipline)
8+ years of experience in propulsion system development, or other high-performance field
Active Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibility
US citizenship is required, due to program requirements
Expertise in propulsion system modelling, static and transient analysis, and model validation using test data software such as Amesim, EcosimPro, Simulink, or Simscape
Experience with end-to-end development process, including gathering requirements, detailed design, qualification, production, and acceptance testing
Experience with all steps in the Systems Engineering V and risk-based decision making
Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
A genuine passion for engineering, curious mindset, and willingness to learn
Demonstrated hands-on engineering skills, inside or outside the workplace
Comfortable working with high levels of ambiguity
Ability to make decisions using basic engineering principles, available literature and standards, technical risk assessments, test data, and physics-based models
Practice in identifying the necessary steps to achieve high level technical goals, scheduling them in a plan, and managing delivery against that plan
Experience with Jama
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
Capabilities using Python for data manipulation and post-processing
Detailed mechanical design experience using NX (preferred) or equivalent industry standard CAD software
Experience with GD&T and engineering drawings
Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software such as Teamcenter (preferred), Windchill, or similar
Experience using National Instruments data acquisition systems
Experience with testing and troubleshooting flight hardware
Master's or PhD
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)
$165,000—$277,000 USD
Base Salary
$132,000—$220,000 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.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected].This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
Rocket Lab builds, launches, and operates rockets and spacecraft for our global customers. Our Electron launch vehicle is the world’s most frequently launched orbital small rocket, our HASTE rocket is progressing America’s hypersonic capabilities on suborbital missions, and our larger Neutron rocket is currently in development. From across the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, Rocket Lab designs and manufactures individual spacecraft components to entire satellites constellations for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Offices: 3881 McGowen St, Long Beach, California 90808, US · 25 Levene Pl, Auckland, 1060, NZ · 7815 Shaffer Pkwy, Littleton, Colorado 80127, US · 20 Maud St, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2M5, CA · 10420 Research Rd SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123, US
How much do Science & Research jobs in Long Beach, CA pay?
Based on 362 listings with disclosed salaries, most science & research jobs in Long Beach, CA pay between $90k–$220k per year. Individual offers vary with seniority, company size, and specialization.
How many Science & Research jobs are open in Long Beach, CA right now?
There are currently 400 open science & research positions in Long Beach, CA listed on Clera. New openings are added daily as companies post roles.
Which companies are hiring for Science & Research roles in Long Beach, CA?
Companies currently hiring include Rocket Lab, Relativity Space, Vast, True Anomaly, CSULB Economics, among others. Browse the listings above to see every active employer.
Are there remote or hybrid Science & Research jobs in Long Beach, CA?
Yes — 37 of the 400 open science & research positions offer remote or hybrid work (10 remote, 27 hybrid).
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