Flight Dynamics Engineer II

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.  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.  FLIGHT DYNAMICS ENGINEER II As a Flight Dynamics Engineer II based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you will perform tracking, navigation, maneuver, trajectory planning, and collision avoidance design and operations for Earth orbiting, lunar, and interplanetary missions as part of a dynamic team with subject matter experts from Systems, Ground Software, Electrical, Avionics, Flight Software, Thermal, Propulsion, and GNC engineering disciplines. You will need to solve complex problems, at times under time critical conditions. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space! WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Develop and analyze launch vehicle and spacecraft trajectories, including ascent, orbit insertion, and orbital maneuvers Perform orbital propagation, rendezvous planning, and station-keeping analysis for spacecraft operations Support mission design including launch window analysis, delta-V budgets, and contingency planning Interface with flight software and GNC teams to validate and optimize guidance profiles Generate and deliver trajectory data products and flight dynamics support for mission readiness reviews Contribute to development of in-house simulation tools and flight dynamics infrastructure Support real-time mission operations including anomaly response and post-launch data analysis YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Space Systems, or Software Engineering, or an equivalent Engineering or Applied Physics degree. 2+ years of experience in mission design, flight dynamics. Understanding of orbital mechanics, Orbit determination theory. Mission analysis with STK, Astrogator, GMAT, Monte, Copernicus, or equivalent. Python software development. Git version control, or an equivalent version control system. Jira software project management or equivalent. Active Secret clearance OR ability to obtain and maintain one U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field. Active TS/SCI clearance Monte Carlo numerical simulation. Orbit determination analysis with ODTK, Orekit, or equivalent Team and/or software project management experience. Ability to work complex problems under time pressure. Ability to prioritize tasks in consultation with a range of stakeholders. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing Must be physically able to commute to buildings  Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.Base Pay Range (CA Only)$100,000—$13