Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future.
SPACE SYSTEMS Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA's Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we're going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.
Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we're only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible – together.
PRINCIPAL FLIGHT DYNAMICS ENGINEER Based out of Rocket Lab's New Zealand headquarters in Auckland, the Principal Flight Dynamics Engineer is responsible for:
Trajectory analysis,Flight dynamics operations,Software development for mission analysis and flight dynamics suites.You will join an operations team built around the 2022 CAPSTONE mission to the Moon. We have five spacecraft missions under our belt, with a diverse portfolio of challenging missions on the horizon for 2024/2025. There include three re-entry missions for Varda Space Industries, the ESCAPADE mission to Mars for NASA and UC Berkeley, the LOXSAT cryogenic propellant storage experiment for NASA, the Lightning telecommunications constellation for GlobalStar, the Victus Haze rapid response rendezvous and proximity operations mission for the USSF, and our privately funded interplanetary mission to Venus.
As a Flight Dynamics Operator (FIDO), you will perform tracking, navigation, maneuver design, and collision avoidance as part of a dynamic operations team in the Mission Control Center with subject matter experts from Command & Control (C2), Space Ops Software (SOPS), Electrical, Environmental, and Consumables Manager (EECOM), Flight Software, Thermal, Propulsion, and GNC. You will need to solve complex problems, often under time critical conditions.
Beyond operations, you will support the development and testing of Rocket Lab's next generation mission analysis and flight dynamic system software suites and strive towards the team's development vision of efficiency and excellence through automation and cross-mission commonality. As a Principal Engineer, your duties will include:
Contributing to strategy for short, medium and long-term development objectives,Coordinating development efforts across a team of flight dynamics engineers through Jira sprint planning, ownership of development milestones,Communication of interfaces, timelines, and blockers with other teams.YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS A Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Space Systems, or Software Engineering, or an equivalent Engineering or Applied Physics degree.An advanced understanding of orbital mechanicsOrbit determination theoryMission analysis with STK, GMAT, Monte, Copernicus, or equivalentOrbit determination analysis with ODTK, Orekit, or equivalentGit release and version controlJira software project management or equivalentAbility to work complex problems under time pressureAbility to prioritize tasks in consultation with a range of stakeholdersExcellent written and verbal communication skillsTHESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE 5+ years of work experience in mission design, flight dynamicsTeam and/or software project management experienceThe opportunity to work on innovative and groundbreaking technologyIf the above sounds like you apply now!
WHAT TO EXPECT We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
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