Flight Analysis Engineer I/II

About the position

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. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more. Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights! The Flight Analysis Engineer I/II - Mission Formulation is responsible for trajectory simulation, modeling, analyses, and testing for Rocket Lab launches and missions. The Flight Analysis Engineer I/II is an integral part of Rocket Lab’s Global Launch Services (GLS) Mission Formulation Team which works closely with other Engineering, Production and Operations teams to bring new launch concepts to life. This team is also responsible for the formulation and implementation of launches and missions of classified missions on HASTE and Electron launch vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Launch and mission operational concept development
• Orbital and suborbital trajectory design and analysis
• Work with external stakeholders and customers for mission-specific requirements engineering
• Support hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing to verify trajectory and flight safety system configuration
• Conduct Monte Carlo simulation analyses to define and verify launch and mission operations
• Support release of flight code for pre-launch ground testing, launch, and mission operations
• Conduct flight safety analyses prior to launch and provide related day-of-launch support
• Verify readiness of AFTS (Autonomous Flight Termination System) hardware and software
• Develop tools and processes for automating common modelling and analysis tasks
• Analyze signal link for trajectories
• Direct contact to Business Development for proposals and mission definition

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering)
• Experience with numerical modelling & simulation, probability & statistics, multi-physics, and/or similar fields of analysis
• Experience with data analysis using MATLAB, SciPy, or similar
• Experience developing in C/C++ and/or Linux
• Fundamental knowledge of atmospheric flight, flight dynamics, and/or orbital mechanics
• Experience with Git version control (e.g., git, github, gitlab)
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD US Government Secret security clearance

Nice-to-haves

• Active TS/SCI clearance
• Advanced degree in engineering (Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering)
• Experience with mission analysis, trajectory optimization, vehicle design and simulation tools
• Experience with RF simulation, modeling and Link budget analysis
• Experience with software and hardware-in-the-loop testing (HITL) and related systems
• Experience with FAA regulations, processes and means of compliance methods for Flight Safety (CFR part 417 and/or part 450)
• Experience with Autonomous Flight Termination Systems (AFTS) and associated flight rules design
• Experience developing 3DOF atmospheric propagators
• Familiarity with collision avoidance for space safety
• Experience with Python scripting development
• Educational knowledge of RF or electrical systems
• Ability to work on own initiative and to plan daily workflow to complete higher level tasks
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships
• Experience working on fast-paced design and development projects

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Paid parental leave
• Company stock or cash incentives
• Discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program