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.

Based out of Rocket Lab Headquarters in Long Beach, California, this shift‑based position will maintain, set up and operate the CNC machines to build flight‑ready hardware that meets Rocket Lab specifications at the required 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.
• Reduce 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 experience with CNC operation on lathes with live tooling and y‑axis.
• Demonstrated ability using dual‑spindle (live tooling) lathes.
• Proficient with precision measuring tools (bore gauge, micrometer, calipers).
• Ability to interpret drawings, GD&T.

• 8+ years experience with CNC operation on lathes with live tooling and y‑axis.
• Comprehensive use of dual‑spindle (live tooling) lathes.
• Strong interpretation skills for drawings, GD&T.

• CNC programming experience.
• NX programming.
• 5‑axis CNC operation and setup.
• Knowledge of using CELOS software on DMG machines.
• Experience with 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 the 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 25lb.
• 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.
• Company equity.
• Medical (HMO, PPO & 100% company‑sponsored HSA plan).
• 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.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

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, or other eligible status as described.

For candidates seeking to work in New Zealand offices: eligibility requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country, or appropriate dual citizenship as permitted by ITAR.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants 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 characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants needing a reasonable accommodation may contact Giulia Johnson at