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. We are also developing Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars.

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle capable of delivering mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, it delivers a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

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 specifications 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 the 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 A Shift (Monday – Thursday 5:00 am – 3:30 pm)
• 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

Level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

$35 – $50 USD

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package. Employees may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package, including top‑tier medical HMO, PPO, and a 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan option; dental and vision coverage; three weeks paid vacation and five days sick leave per year; 11 paid holidays per year; flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts;

paid parental leave; disability insurance; life insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan with company match; discounted employee stock purchase program;…