Development Engineer II

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket 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 Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. While other companies talk about it, we do it! ABOUT ENGINEERING AT ROCKET LAB: Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab . Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space . You’ll work alongside driven , talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels , all committed to the same mission . Our engineering team members span design , analysis , prototyping , testing , manufacturing , assembly and integration , quality control , engineering documentation , and more. Development Engineers deliver design, testing, and continuous improvement of mission-critical systems across the Electron launch vehicle, spanning structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal domains. This includes propellant tanks, interstages, fairings, stage separation systems, landing mechanisms, aerodynamic controls, pressurant systems, propellant management, ignition systems, HVAC, and thermal protection. Working collaboratively with analysis and manufacturing engineers, this role drives the complete development lifecycle—from initial concept and iterative CAD design through detailed drawing packages for mechanical components and assemblies. The position encompasses comprehensive test planning and execution for development and qualification activities, ensuring all materials, components, and assemblies meet stringent functional and performance requirements. This role requires technical expertise and collaboration with cross-functional teams, combining strategic problem-solving with hands-on engineering to enable rapid innovation while maintaining the highest safety standards. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD, produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc, and produce test jigs / fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies Formulate comprehensive test plans to ensure compliance with common aerospace standards, execute hands-on test activities, and apply your expertise particularly in the area of structures to the analysis and understanding of test results Work closely with the wider development and analysis teams on anomaly resolution and design improvements, support ongoing vehicle development of the vehicle through established engineering change process, and leverage your experience to offer insights into off-nominal behaviour and performing failure modes and effects analysis for existing designs Assume ownership for improvements and challenges in your assigned responsibility, break down tasks, plan, estimate, and cut scope to ship on time, and prioritise in alignment with company goals Ensure health and safety policies and standard operating procedures are followed, correct PPE is worn in designated areas, and report near-misses and incidents promptly YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic enginee…