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# Senior Design Engineer I

- **Company:** Rocket Lab
- **Location:** Tucson, AZ, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** 3d Models, Computer-Aided Design, SolidWorks (CAD), Visual Systems, Creo, Software Version Control
- **Published:** October 27, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=6bc3e9214184a0be

## About the Role

* 5+ years of experience and a bachelor's degree, or 9+ years of experience in lieu of a bachelor's degree
 * Mechanical design experience associated with assembly and testing of optical systems.
 * Experience with SolidWorks, NX, or CREO.
 * Proficiency in utilizing common PDM data management tools and administration.
 * Familiarity with industry practices/standards used in drafting, design modeling, and revision control.
 * Proficiency with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
 * Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance., * Associate degree in Computer Aided Design, Engineering Technology, IT, or other applicable degree, or equivalent proficiency gained from practical experience.
 * Expertise in implementation of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standards, FAIR inspections and tooling methods, and DFM ownership.
 * Hands-on experience with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems.
 * Experience as an REA (Responsible Engineering Authority) or familiarity with documentation process controls.
 * Ability to support travel as required, including working off-site.

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.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. 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.

## Description

As a Senior Design Engineer I for Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ, you will have the opportunity to support Tranche 3 of the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture with three-dimensional computer-aided designs.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

 * Produce mechanical designs & drawings for a wide variety of hardware and assemblies.
 * Work with the engineering and AI&T teams to develop designs and assembly processes.
 * Support program efforts through inception to successful integration and test.
 * Serve as an adjunct PDM administrator to support drawing workflows for review and release of drawings and other project documentation.
 * Ensure technical documentation control processes are followed and implement revision control on CAD models and drawings.
 * Identify and correct design, model, and drawing errors and deficiencies, and recommend corrective actions.
 * Work with machine shops and vendors to complete fabrication of designs.
 * Work proactively to complete tasks in some modest direction.
 * Communicate effectively with project management and team members across disciplines.
 * Provide status on assigned tasks and program schedules.
 * Ability to support on-site work, as needed.
 * Ability to support travel or off-site work, as needed.
 * Perform other duties as assigned.