Director, Manufacturing Finance

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 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.

Rocket Lab’s Finance team is responsible for all financial transactions for the company, operating as a well‑oiled machine to maximize the value of our work. Our Finance team are made up of planners, analysts and accountants, and manage our policies, compliance, and reporting. They’re the ones who keep our financial operations in check, always thinking ahead and taking care to meet all of our financial, business, and government obligations.

They’re attentive, diligent, and meticulous, and are mission‑critical to Rocket Lab.

Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Director of Manufacturing Finance is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial operations, planning, and analysis within the manufacturing function of the organization. This individual will act as a key business partner to the Chief Operations Officer and the manufacturing leadership team, driving financial performance, operational efficiency, and cost optimization across production facilities and supply chain operations.

The Director will provide critical insights and recommendations to support decision‑making, ensure compliance, and align financial strategies with the company’s overall goals.

The Director of Manufacturing Finance will report directly to the Vice President of Finance.

• Serve as the primary financial advisor to the COO and the manufacturing leadership team, providing strategic guidance on cost management, capital investments, and operational efficiencies.
• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with manufacturing goals and overall business objectives.
• Lead financial planning and forecasting processes for manufacturing operations, ensuring accuracy and alignment with corporate targets.

• Oversee the preparation of detailed financial analyses, including cost variance analysis, production efficiency metrics, and profitability assessments.
• Lead Program Accounting efforts.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to manufacturing costs, inventory management, and supply chain performance.
• Present financial insights and recommendations to senior executives and stakeholders.

• Drive cost reduction initiatives across manufacturing operations, including labor, materials, overhead, and supply chain expenses.
• Collaborate with operations teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and waste reduction.
• Ensure accurate product costing to support profitability goals.

• Evaluate and prioritize capital investment opportunities in manufacturing facilities and equipment.
• Lead financial due diligence for new projects, ensuring alignment with ROI and payback criteria.
• Monitor capital expenditures and ensure adherence to budgets.

• Partner with plant managers and supply chain leaders to improve operational performance and financial outcomes.
• Provide financial expertise to support decisions related to production planning, inventory management, and procurement…