Team Lead - Thermofluids Analysis
On-site · Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Job Summary
Lead complex thermofluids analysis for Rocket Lab's launch vehicles and space systems, including CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic aerodynamic flows, internal fluid systems, and heat transfer analysis; collaborate with design and test engineers to iterate concepts, validate performance with flight and ground test data, and identify anomalies using first principles physics and data analysis; shape technical direction through peer reviews and documentation of best practices; mentor and develop junior analysts and drive training and performance development; leverage advanced CFD/thermal modeling tools and programming to support cross-functional teams and ensure on-time delivery.
Required Qualifications
- Advanced engineering degree (Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar) with 5+ years of industry experience in Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors
- Expert-level CFD and thermal modeling skills with experience using Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST
- Proficiency with NX CAD/Teamcenter (or comparable packages)
- Engineering programming experience in Python (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib)
- Proven ability to validate and document complex analyses and to deliver results under changing deadlines in high-pressure environments
- Strong cross-functional communication and collaboration abilities
- Mentoring experience and ability to develop junior analysts
Additional Requirements
- US candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), or otherwise eligible to obtain ITAR authorizations for U.S. government space technology work
- NZ candidates must be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by ITAR for New Zealand locations, with related background checks as described in the posting
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