Rocket Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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.
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
The Marketing & Communications team is the storytelling engine of Rocket Lab. We tell the big stories, break down the complex concepts, showcase the inspiring missions, and make space beautiful. Through media relations, social media, video production, events, merchandise, and design, the Marketing & Communications team works across the entire business to translate literal rocket science into stories and messages that resonate with key audiences.
BRAND DESIGNER
Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA we are looking for a creative and technically skilled Graphic / Brand Designer to create visual content with impact - from mission patches to merchandise, presentations to event graphics, and digital campaigns to website content. You'll partner closely with our Brand Design Lead and collaborate with many teams across the business. We move fast and work on everything from technical renders to social campaigns to rocket livery that'll end up in orbit. You need to keep up, communicate clearly, and push work across the finish line without someone holding your hand.
This role is perfect if you want to own projects from concept to execution, get excited by designing across multiple formats, and enjoy working with teams who care deeply about their work and want to see it brought to life through your work.
This role can be based in either Long Beach, California or Auckland, New Zealand.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Design high-quality graphics for digital platforms, print materials, presentations, and event activations
• Develop compelling visual concepts that translate complex aerospace technology into accessible, engaging content
• Create branded assets for product launches, mission campaigns, and corporate communications
• Support the production of video content, motion graphics, and social media assets
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining consistency with Rocket Lab's brand standards
• Partner with external vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless execution of creative work (merchandise, conference booths, websites, printed collateral etc)
• Contribute to the evolution of Rocket Lab's visual identity as the company grows
• Design mission patches, vehicle livery, and other unique aerospace applications
• Maintain organized asset libraries and design systems

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of professional graphic design experience & a bachelors degree or equivalent years of work experience (9+ years of total work experience).
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Portfolio demonstrating expertise in brand design
• Experience in developing merchandise and swag, working with vendors through the production process to deliver completed products
• Understanding of typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience working in aerospace, space, defense, or deep-tech industries
• Experience with motion graphics, video editing, or 3D rendering software is a plus
• Knowledge of web design principles and tools like Figma or Sketch
• Familiarity with 3D software such as Cinema 4D, Blender, or KeyShot
• Experience designing for live events, exhibitions, or experiential activations
• Understanding of photography direction and art direction for photo shoots
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt quickly to changing priorities
• Strong communication skills and the ability to present creative concepts
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to take direct feedback and iterate quickly
• Passion for storytelling and translating technical subject matter into compelling visuals

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.
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)
$82,000-$103,000 USD
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.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.