Additive Manufacturing Engineer I​/II

Job Overview

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.

Based at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Additive Manufacturing Engineer‑DED is responsible for supporting the development of directed energy deposition (DED, EHLA, Hybrid Solutions) with various alloys. This role will support all additive processes involved with the Archimedes engines and will report to the Manager of Additive Manufacturing Engineering and Production.

• Develop printing parameters for various metallic alloys using a variety of printing methods (DED; Hybrid; monolithic & graded alloys).
• Create new and improve existing print programs; provide engineering support for day‑to‑day additive manufacturing operations.
• Work closely with downstream support functions to ensure print geometries can be effectively post‑processed.
• Provide critical feedback during the DfAM process.
• Collaborate with Design & Manufacturing Engineers to design specific types of additive manufacturing and communicate why specific aspects of DfAM are necessary.

(This position can be hired at either the Additive Manufacturing Engineer I or Additive Manufacturing Engineer II level)

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Experience with additive manufacturing of metallic materials.
• Proficiency with DfAM fundamentals.
• Experience modeling in Siemens NX or Solid Works.
• Experience programming in CAM, such as Siemens NX or Master Cam.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• 2+ years of experience with additive manufacturing of metallic materials.
• Proficiency with DfAM fundamentals.
• Experience modeling in Siemens NX or Solid Works.
• Experience programming in CAM, such as Siemens NX or Master Cam.

• Master’s degree in Material Science, Additive Manufacturing, or a related engineering field.
• 3+ years’ experience in additive manufacturing process development.
• Experience on LP‑DED platforms.
• Experience with robotic programming.
• Ability to create and deliver accurate, concise presentations for design, manufacturing, and quality.
• Ability to solve complex problems with little or no supervision in a timely manner.
• A strong work ethic and ability to perform under pressure.
• Strong ability to provide and clearly articulate technical direction.

• Sit at a desk and operate computer, keyboard, and office equipment for extended periods.
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools, and technical equipment, as needed.
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision.
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed.
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Base salary is determined on a case‑by‑case basis. Base pay range (CA only): $82,000 USD – $119,000 USD.

Employees may also receive company equity and 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, 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.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to…