Lathe CNC Machinist III​/Senior - B Shift

LATHE CNC MACHINIST III / SENIOR - B SHIFT

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 and 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 B Shift (Monday – Thursday 3:15 p.m. – 1:45 a.m.)
• 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

Base Pay Range (CA Only): $35 — $50 USD

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 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 and a 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 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: discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

For candidates seeking to work in U.S. offices only:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Learn more about ITAR.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other…