Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Propulsion

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 ambitious and vital missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, combatting climate change, national security, and technology demonstrations.

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle capable of delivering mega constellations and high‑assurance payloads, including human spaceflight. It will be a highly reusable launch platform that leverages Rocket Lab’s proven Electron history for a cost‑effective and reliable solution.

Based at Rocket Lab’s headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Lead Manufacturing Engineer – Propulsion oversees the introduction and implementation of new product and product revisions for Rutherford and Archimedes engines. The role supports the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and the Production organization, delivering required reports to internal leadership, the board, and investors.

• Contribute to design reviews as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, and quality control.
• Perform initial value‑stream mapping, method of manufacture plans, cell design, and related activities.
• 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 sign‑offs.
• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and lead problem containment and root‑cause & corrective‑action investigations when required.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment to improve quality, delivery, and/or cost performance.
• Lead the continuous‑improvement process 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.

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

• Advanced engineering degree (preferably in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace).
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components.
• Experience with assembly & testing of turbo machinery and combustion devices.
• Experience designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area.
• Experience with welding, heat treating, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and precision cleaning.
• Experience transitioning products from design to production in a fast‑paced, iterative design environment.
• Experience performing root‑cause and corrective‑action projects and PFMEA/DFMEA of manufacturing processes and products.

• Sit at desk and operate computer 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 Pay Range (CA Only): $124,000 – $155,000 USD

We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. It requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on thinking outside the box, working to tight deadlines, and focusing on…