Director, Space Vehicle Design

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA, United States
Base: $195,000 - $240,000 usd; bonus/equity: compy...
On-site
12+ years of engineering experience
Spacecraft/satellite design experience
Expertise in siemens nx and teamcenter
Rocket Lab is seeking a Director of Space Vehicle Design to lead a multi-disciplinary engineering team in Long Beach, CA. The role requires a strong background in mechanical, structural, and thermal engineering, with a focus on spacecraft development, design, and testing

Job Summary

  • The Director of Space Vehicle Design will lead a multi-disciplinary team of mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers while guiding technical development across the Space Systems organization.
  • Rocket Lab is seeking a candidate with a strong background in bringing spacecraft hardware from concept through launch and successfully navigating challenging projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Employees receive a total rewards package including company equity, top-tier medical coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, and access to an onsite gym and subsidized EV charging.

Matching Summary

Match Score: 85

Rocket Lab is seeking a Director of Space Vehicle Design to lead a multi-disciplinary engineering team in Long Beach, CA. The role requires a strong background in mechanical, structural, and thermal engineering, with a focus on spacecraft development, design, and testing.

Salary

Base: $195,000 - $240,000 USD; Bonus/Equity: Company equity included; Benefits: Top tier medical HMO/PPO, dental, vision, 401(k) match, paid parental leave

Skills & Requirements

Must-have

  • 12+ years of engineering experience
  • Spacecraft/satellite design experience
  • Expertise in Siemens NX and Teamcenter
  • Direct experience with environmental testing
  • Experience with spacecraft structural dynamics

Nice-to-have

  • Master's or PhD in aerospace engineering
  • Experience leading large multi-disciplinary teams
  • Comfortable executing on aggressive deadlines
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Key Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering
  • U.S. citizenship required
  • 3+ years of experience as a team lead or manager
  • Expertise in CAD, drafting, and GD&T

Work Rights

Must have US citizenship

Tailored Resume

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