Senior Thermofluids Analyst
Core
Conducting thermofluid analyses, CFD simulations, and heat transfer modeling to validate and optimize launch vehicle systems for Rocket Lab's Neutron and Electron rockets.
Role type
Senior IC thermofluids analyst (aerospace)
Builds
Neutron and Electron launch vehicles, including pressurization, propellant management, and reaction control systems
Domain
Aerospace engineering, rocket propulsion, thermofluids
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
CFD simulation (compressible/incompressible, two-phase, choked flow), heat transfer analysis, Python (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib), experimental test data interpretation, system sizing, propellant dynamics modeling, peer review methodologies
Preferred skills
Propellant dynamics (slosh, Pogo), cryogenics, thermal protection system design, HVAC system analysis, SolidWorks CAD, industry standards (MIL-STD, NASA-STD)
Technologies
Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, NX SST, SolidWorks
Responsibilities
Perform and validate CFD analyses of launch vehicle fluid systems; Conduct heat transfer simulations including integrated thermal analyses; Process and interpret ground test and flight data to verify bounds and resolve anomalies; Collaborate with design engineers to iterate concepts and determine test requirements; Develop propellant dynamics models and contribute to automation of data review processes; Conduct peer reviews and document analysis methodologies
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC