Manufacturing Engineer II - Composites

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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, combatting climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

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!

We are currently seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II, Composites to be based at Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River, MD. The Manufacturing Engineer II will be responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of composite manufacturing technologies and processes used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure.

• Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout definitions to meet volume requirements including preparation of business cases.
• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor sign‑offs.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where required to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost requirements.
• Actively contribute to facility construction projects including requirements generation, design reviews, and implementation support.
• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, and quality control.
• Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions as related to the Neutron launch vehicle composite structure.
• Lead problem containment and structured root‑cause & corrective action investigations.
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non‑conformances.
• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems.
• Identify risks and improvements to develop the manufacturing engineering department to meet company needs.
• Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians daily.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or another technical degree.
• 2+ years of composite manufacturing experience.

• Working experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma, and value stream mapping.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Experience in Automated Fiber Placement technology.
• Experience with both autoclave and out‑of‑autoclave composite manufacturing techniques.
• Experience with Non‑Destructive Testing/Inspection of composite components.
• Experience in qualification and acceptance testing of composite structural components.

• Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.

$90,000—$115,000 USD

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

Base salary is just one component of…