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 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. 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.

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 the 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 Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.
• 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 signoffs.
• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and when required, lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.
• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area 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 in 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 with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area.
• Experience with manufacturing processes, including but not limited to TIG, EB and laser welding, heat treating, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining and precision cleaning.
• Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of a cross‑functional team in a fast‑paced, iterative design environment.
• Experience performing root cause and corrective action projects and PFMEA / DFMEA of manufacturing processes and products.

Position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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 Pay Range (CA Only): $124,000 – $155,000 USD

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities…