Senior Systems Safety Engineer I

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. 

SENIOR SYSTEMS SAFETY ENGINEER I

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. 

At Rocket Lab, our Safety & Mission Assurance Team is at the heart of every successful launch. As a Senior Systems Safety Engineer I, you’ll play a critical role in working with range safety authorities to ensure the safe ground processing of spacecraft and ground support equipment at launch ranges. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Development, implementation, and update of safety program plans, range safety requirement matrices/tailoring, ground hazard analyses, ground safety plans, and other range safety documentationfor Rocket Lab Space Systems  
• Formulation and timely submission of range safety deliverables in support of payload processing at launch sites.
• Compliance and tailoring of range safety manuals and other industry safety standards for Rocket Lab spacecraft programs,
• Support the development of ground safety procedures for integration and testing of space systems payloads and spacecraft. 
• Perform system safety analyses on pressure systems, propulsion systems, electrical systems, mechanisms, lifting equipment, and other hazardous system types.
• Work closely with management, engineering, and operations functions and subject matter experts to deliver safe products and coordinate external submissions.
•  Support the wider Rocket Lab safety team producing deliverables or performing safety reviews of non-space systems projects 
• Participation in program engineering reviews.
• Support travel or off-site work as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A SENIOR SYSTEMS SAFETY ENGINEER I: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, systems, or aerospace engineering; or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of experience in a relevant engineering role (system safety, certification, aerospace, and/or design of spacecraft) with a focus on regulatory compliance, requirements, or safety. 
• Demonstrated deep understanding of ground safety process. Must have experience with safety and compliance standards and requirements, applying those requirements, and justifying non-compliance when applicable.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent safety programs and effectively prioritize and execute tasking
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical, interface, and system technical documentation
• US Citizenship is required due to program requirements
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Active U.S. Government Secret Security Clearance
• Experience with compliance, tailoring, and submittal of range safety standards (SSCMAN, GSFC, ANSI/AIAA, etc.).
• Prior experience working in, or engaging with, launch range safety authorities.
• Experience working on NSSL missions and payloads
• Experience with composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs).
• Prior experience in payload processing, and/or launch operations. 
• Direct experience with design, test, and/ or operation of hazardous propellants (mono- or bi-propellant, hypergolic, etc.) and high-pressure systems.
• 5+ years of experience in an engineering role with a focus on regulatory compliance, requirements, or safety.
• Familiarity with various launch sites (Vandenberg, Cape Canaveral, Wallops Flight Facility, etc.).
• Demonstrated experience working with minimal supervision in complex projects
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and explain complex implementation processes to other organization members

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.