Manufacturing Engineer II​/Senior - Machining

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 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.

MANUFACTURING

Rocket Lab's Manufacturing teams 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.

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II / SENIOR - MACHINING

We are currently seeking an experience 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.

(This position can be hired as a Manufacturing Engineer II or Senior Manufacturing Engineer Level)

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

* Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.

* 2+ years of machine shop experience.

* Ability to rapidly iterate NX CAM programs and operate 5-axis CNC equipment.

* Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

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

* Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.

* 5+ years of machine shop experience.

* Ability to rapidly iterate NX CAM programs and operate 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.

* 8+ years of machine shop experience.

* Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.

* Experience machining turbo machinery and combustion device components.

* Familiarity with post processing methods, AM and welding.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

* Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.

* Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.

* Must be physically able to commute to buildings.

* Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

* Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules.

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,…