CNC Machinist III​/Senior - C Shift

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 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. 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 reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity.

Based out of Rocket Lab Headquarters in Long Beach, California, the CNC Machinist III / Senior will maintain, set up and operate the CNC machines to build flight‑ready hardware that meets Rocket Lab specification at the needed rate.

• Work with CNC lathe and mill machines
• Read and translate drawings/CAD models
• Provide feedback to improve work instructions
• Work with CNC programmer to maintain tolerances
• Work to reduce any non‑conformances found by quality or engineering
• Provide improvement ideas on batch sizes, setups, tool selection, etc.
• Track calibration and maintenance of all equipment and tooling in the area

• 5+ years of experience with CNC operation on lathe and mills
• Demonstrated ability using lathes: dual spindle (live tooling)
• Demonstrated ability using mills: turning 5th axis
• Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, GD&T

• 8+ years of experience with CNC operation on lathe and mills
• Demonstrated ability using lathes: dual spindle (live tooling)
• Demonstrated ability using mills: turning 5th axis
• Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, GD&T

• CNC programming experience – NX Programming
• Experience in an aerospace manufacturing environment
• 5‑axis CNC operation and setup
• Competent navigating DMG Mori machines: DMU 50, 85, 125, NLX 2500‑4000
• Experience using Siemens, Fanuc and Celos controls
• Experience using bar feeders
• Manual programming

• Willing to work C Shift (Friday – Sunday 5:30 am – 3:30 pm)
• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
• Repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required
• Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls
• Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted

• $35 – 50 per hour plus shift differential

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package, including top‑tier medical HMO, PPO & 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.

Other perks include:…