60 Rocket Lab Lead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs Hiring Near You

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.
NEUTRON
Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!
MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I - MACHINING
We are currently seeking an enthusiastic Manufacturing Engineer with a focus in Machining based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA. They will be responsible for the machining development of new products and product revisions as related to the Rutherford engine (currently in use on the 2nd most frequently launched US rocket), and the Archimedes engine where they will have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a novel rocket engine build!
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for machining, productivity, quality control, etc.
• Select, procure, and install machine shop equipment along with developing maintenance/calibration plans.
• Develop machining capability in-house for the Archimedes components and implement rapid iterations.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.
• Responsible for continuous improvement and cost reduction projects belonging to the fabrication department.
• Collaborate with other Rocket Lab machine shops for general alignment, capability, and support.
• Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and machinist daily.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I - MACHINING:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience in a machine shop.
• Familiarity with CAM software and 5-axis CNC equipment.
• Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Working experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma and value stream mapping.
• 5+ years of machine shop experience.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Experience machining turbomachinery and combustion device components.
• Familiarity with post processing methods, AM and welding.

NEUTRON
Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!
Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Propulsion
Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Propulsion is responsible for overseeing the introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions as related to both Rutherford and Archimedes engines. You will support the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors and investors.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.
• Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.
• Implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning.
• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor signoffs.
• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and when required, lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance
• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S
• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems
• Lead a team of manufacturing engineers through development and production initiatives.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 4-year engineering degree (Preferably, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace)
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
• Understanding of fluid and structural mechanics fundamentals
• Knowledge in manufacturing processes for aerospace materials
• 3+ years of experience in a leadership position.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced engineering degree (Preferably, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace)
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components
• Experience with assembly & testing of turbomachinery and combustion devices
• Experience with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area
• Experience with manufacturing processes, including but not limited to TIG, EB and laser welding, heat treating, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining and precision cleaning
• Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of cross-functional team in a fast-paced, iterative design environment
• Experience performing root cause and corrective action projects and PFMEA / DFMEA of manufacturing processes and products

MANUFACTURING
Rocket Lab's Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.
LEAD MANUFACTURING ENGINEER - AVIONICS
Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Avionics is responsible for process development, implementation and sustainment of Avionics Components and Assemblies used across all programs. You will support the Manufacturing Engineering Manager for Avionics and Space Systems, Production, and Design organizations, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Coach, mentor and develop engineers to achieve new heights in their careers.
• Perform weekly, quarterly and yearly reviews with their direct employees
• Interview and hire candidates to fill new roles
• Create team goals and metrics to drive continuous improvement projects
• Lead/organize meetings as necessary to drive project completion
• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.
• Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions
• Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.
• Define and implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning
• Capital and facilities justification, project management and implementation
• Lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations
• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor Degree in Engineering (Preferably Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Mechanical)
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Personnel leadership experience
• Strong working knowledge of EEE piece parts, PCB, PCBA, electromechanical assembly, tooling, test, and quality techniques
• Extensive experience using fundamentals of electronic circuits, design principles, and manufacturing techniques to solve component issues in a fast-paced environment

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced engineering degree (Preferably Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Mechanical)
• 8+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Working experience with environmental acceptance/production acceptance testing, such as vibration, shock, thermal, and vacuum
• Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors
• Experience with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area
• Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of cross-functional team in a fast-paced, iterative design environment
• Demonstrated experience with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies, Fault Tree Analysis, Pareto analysis, root cause and corrective action

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)
$90,000-$120,000 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