Lathe CNC Machinist III​/Senior - 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 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!

Based out of Rocket Lab Headquarters in Long Beach, California the Lathe CNC Machinist III / Senior will maintain, set up and operate the CNC machines to build flight‑ready hardware that meet 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 lathes with live tooling and y‑axis
• Demonstrated ability using Dual Spindle (Live Tooling) lathes
• Demonstrated ability using precision measuring tools (bore gauge, micrometer, calipers)
• Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, GD&T

• 8+ years of experience with CNC operation on lathes with live tooling and y‑axis
• Demonstrated ability using Dual Spindle (Live Tooling) lathes
• Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, GD&T

• CNC programming experience – NX Programming
• Experience in an Aerospace Manufacturing Environment
• 5‑axis CNC operation and setup
• Knowledge of using CELOS software on DMG machines
• Experience using Siemens, Fanuc and Celos Controls
• Experience using bar feeders
• Manual Programming

• Willing to work A Shift (Monday – Thursday 5:00am – 3:30pm)
• Stand and walk extended periods (8+ hours) on production floor
• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

$35—$50 USD

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out‑think, out‑work, and out‑pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big…