Composites Engineer II​/Senior

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, 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. We are developing Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

At Rocket Lab we’re not just launching rockets – we’re building the future of space. The Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft to precision payloads, and the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, such as solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

We have enabled more than 1,700 missions in interplanetary exploration, in‑space manufacturing, national security, and defense. Our team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.

Based at Rocket Lab’s site in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Composites Engineers facilitate and optimize the production of solar products and sub‑systems for a high‑growth, high‑consequence production environment, ensuring best‑practice manufacturing principles are employed to meet stringent deadlines. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space.

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Please note:

This position can be hired at the Composites Engineer II or Senior Composites Engineer I level.)

• Work on ground‑breaking products and processes. Introduce innovative manufacturing equipment and processes to the production floor. Touch a satellite going to space!
• Take ownership of spacecraft composite production lines.
• Support the build of spacecraft composite structures in a hands‑on capacity.
• Practice continuous improvement and lean manufacturing techniques.
• Manage project timelines.
• Understand technical and program risks.
• Lead non‑conformance and root‑cause analysis investigations.
• Create technical documentation.
• Advise on design improvements for components, subsystems, procedures, equipment, and tooling.
• Work within a rapidly growing Space Systems team.
• Collaborate with highly motivated, enthusiastic professionals in a fun and supportive environment – opportunity for growth!
• If you bring experience within a regulated manufacturing industry, this would be advantageous.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing, Industrial or Aerospace Engineering.
• 2+ years of hands‑on experience within a composites manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of composite materials, manufacturing processes, testing techniques, and design techniques, including prepreg layup, machining, and structural assembly bonding.
• Proven ability to deliver KPIs (with little to no supervision) on schedule, as an individual or as a member of an integrated team.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing, Industrial or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience within a composites manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of composite materials, manufacturing processes, testing techniques, and design techniques, including prepreg layup, machining, and structural assembly bonding.
• Proven ability to deliver KPIs (with…