Lead Engineer, Combustion Devices

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team and pushing the boundaries of humanity with a clean sheet, reusable launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! 

Lead Combustion Engineer

The Lead Combustion Engineer position is based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This person will lead a high performing team that is responsible for the design and development of all combustion devices for the Archimedes engine that powers both the first and second stage of the Neutron launch vehicle. You will support the Neutron program and Archimedes team with combustion device designs and hardware to enable vehicle development, testing and flight. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:  

• Guide a small team of combustion device experts through the early stages of the Neutron program
• Serve as technical expert for combustion devices in engine design discussions
• Own critical combustion designs, analysis and other technical details as needed to support the objectives of the team
• Provide strategy on development plans including what hardware to build and how tests are performed in order to maximize the program’s available resources towards meaningful progress on Neutron
• Build and maintain relationships with key vendors and contractors as needed through the engine development lifecycle
• Collaborate heavily with Rocket Lab manufacturing teams to ensure combustion devices are producible and test and flight objectives can be met
• Support engine and sub-system testing both remotely and onsite as needed at Stennis as well as other test facilities

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:   

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field
• 7+ years liquid rocket engine design & test experience  

• Fundamental understanding of critical aspects of combustion device design including performance, durability, reliability, and manufacturability
• Experience successfully leading a team through a challenging technical project or program

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• 10+ years experience in combustion device development & testing
• Master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering
• Experience with a range of thrust chamber, propellant injector and manifold designs both theoretically and in production
• Extensive experience leading teams of engineers to successful outcomes on challenging projects with tight timelines and budgets
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes including CNC mill/lathe, welding, additive, etc.
• Strong fundamentals of structural mechanics, fatigue and fracture. Experience with structural analysis, fatigue and fracture calculations.
• Strong fluid flow and heat transfer fundamentals
• Professional design experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed