Team Lead - CFD

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! NEUTRON Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. TEAM LEAD - CFD As a Team Lead - CFD based at Rocket Lab’s site in Auckland , you will be leading a team of hard-working and mission-focused thermofluid analyst in supporti ng analysis, design validation, and future improvements of Rocket Lab's suite of Launch Vehicles, Space Systems, and Space Components . To be successful in this role, you must be a role model for professional behavior . You’ll be responsible for setting the tone , driving productivity, and ensuring deadlines and targets are consistently met. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Lead complex thermofluids analysis for Rocket Lab's launch vehicles and space systems, including CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic aerodynamic flows, internal fluid systems (compressible and incompressible flow), and heat transfer analysis (conduction, convection, and radiation) Drive cross-functional collaboration by working closely with design and test engineers to iterate design concepts, process flight and ground test data to validate vehicle performance, and identify anomalies using first principles physics and data analysis Shape technical direction by conducting peer reviews, establishing analysis methodology, documenting best practices, and producing qualification test levels while coordinating knowledge sharing across global teams Mentor and develop the team by coaching junior analysts on technical best practices, creating training opportunities, establishing performance management plans, and serving as a role model for professional behavior and effective team discussions YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Degree (Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar) with 5+ years of industry experience from Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors, bringing a strong physics and first principles approach to problem-solving Expert-level CFD and thermal modeling skills with hands-on experience using industry-standard packages (Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST) and proven ability to validate and document complex analyses Strong technical toolkit including proficiency with NX CAD/Teamcenter (or comparable packages), sensor selection and data post-processing, and engineering programming expertise in Python (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib) Proven execution and communication abilities with demonstrated success delivering results under changing deadlines in high-pressure environments, building strong cross-functional relationships, and communicating effectively through written documents and presentations THESE QUA…