R&D Mechanical Engineer

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. 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. Are you an experienced R&D or Product Development Engineer looking to take ownership of meaningful, hands‑on engineering projects? We’re looking for a motivated engineer with a strong fabrication background and proven project leadership capability to join our team. In this role, you will lead end‑to‑end development projects, from concept and design through prototyping, testing, and successful delivery into production. You’ll work closely with fabrication teams and cross‑functional stakeholders to develop innovative steel and stainless‑steel products that meet performance, safety, and manufacturing requirements. You won’t be stuck on long, drawn‑out development cycles here. Our projects are short, fast‑moving, and highly varied, giving you the chance to quickly see your concepts come to life. It’s an energising environment for engineers who enjoy momentum, autonomy, and tangible results. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Leading R&D and product development projects from idea to completion Designing metallic structures and components products using modern CAD tools Working hands‑on with fabrication processes: sheet metal, welding, machining, assembly, or similar Developing prototypes, running tests, and refining designs Collaborating with production, quality, suppliers, and operations teams Preparing documentation, drawings, specifications, and project reports YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 5–8 years of engineering experience, ideally in R&D, product development, or mechanical design Background in aerospace, aviation, oil and gas, or industrial engineering environments Proven track record of leading or delivering technical projects Strong practical fabrication knowledge Experience designing products in steel and stainless steel Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, etc.) Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to work across teams A proactive, hands‑on approach and a genuine interest in product innovation Apply now and join a team where your engineering expertise can truly shape real-world innovation. WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth,…