Manufacturing Engineer - 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 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 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!

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 U.S. rocket), and the Archimedes engine where they will have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a novel rocket engine build!

• 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 machinists daily.

• 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.

• 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 turbo machinery and combustion device components.
• Familiarity with post‑processing methods, AM and welding.

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.

• 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…