Team Lead - Ground Systems Team X

Rocketlab · Auckland, NZ · Other

Posted 2026-09-24

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About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. Our mission is to open access to space to improve life on Earth. We design, build, and launch advanced rockets and spacecraft, enabling innovative missions for commercial, civil, defense, and academic customers. Join us as we build the future of space.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Engineering Leadership

Lead a team of engineers delivering projects across production tooling, ground support equipment, and test and launch infrastructure

Act as a subject matter expert and technical decision maker in design for manufacturing, testing, quality control, risk assessment, and productivity

Drive robust planning and resource allocation to deliver projects to aggressive deadlines

Engage with a Global Organization

Collaborate with diverse teams across the Neutron program to support development, production, test, and operational needs

Priorities and manage delivery of capital projects to introduce new capabilities and refine existing ones as we scale production and launch cadence

Deliver projects and capabilities across multiple sites in New Zealand and the USA

People Leadership

Mentor, coach, and develop the team’s capability and culture of ownership and execution

Manage professional development for engineers and recruit new talent as required

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or related technical field

6+ years of engineering design experience

1+ years in engineering management, team management, project management, or similar

Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven environment

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with large tooling, equipment, or structure design; launch pad systems; or industries such as oil & gas, process, or mining

Familiarity with NASA, ASME, ASTM, IEC, or AS/NZS standards

Working knowledge of Siemens NX/Teamcenter

Experience with project management software (e.g., Jira, Confluence)

Experience with structural analysis, including hand calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Experience with Process and Instrumentation Diagrams and wiring diagrams

Demonstrated leadership competencies

We offer a dynamic, fast-paced environment where innovation and ambition are encouraged. You’ll work with some of the brightest minds in the industry, contribute to world-first missions, and help shape the future of space.

Ready to launch your career? Apply now and help us make space accessible for everyone.

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