Lead, Structures Engineer

Rocket Lab – Space Systems & Neutron Launch Vehicle

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering launch services, spacecraft design, manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and related technology. The rockets and satellites we build enable scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate‑change mitigation, national security, and new technology demonstrations. Rocket Lab’s Electron is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit. Our Space Systems business designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft supporting NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and elements of the James Webb Space Telescope.

Neutron

– Medium‑Lift Reusable Launch Vehicle

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega‑constellations of tomorrow, high‑assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. Neutron will deliver a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. This is an opportunity to join a high‑performing team, push the boundaries of clean‑sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle, and work on tomorrow’s space infrastructure.

Lead,

Structures Engineer – Middle River, MD

Rocket Lab’s Space Structures Complex is a new production facility in Middle River, MD. The Lead Engineering employee will be responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of major structural assembly production for the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure.

What You’ll Get to do

• Manage a team of Manufacturing Engineers responsible for the production of major Neutron primary structures at the Space Structures Complex.
• Coordinate a team focused on safe production methods, quality product, robust process design (bonding, alignment, lamination), and design‑for‑manufacturability and design‑for‑test support.
• Translate between Design (Teamcenter) and manufacturing (MBOMs, methods, work instructions).
• Lead root‑cause, containment, and corrective action programs and quickly resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non‑conformances.
• Coordinate with structures, other Lead Engineers, facilities, operations, and stakeholders to manage facility‑wide constraints, develop training plans, and introduce new production techniques for scaling production.
• Contribute to design reviews as a manufacturing, test, productivity, supplier capability, and quality control expert.
• Develop and mentor less‑experienced engineers and technicians, perform performance management, and recruit additional engineers as needed.

You’ll Bring These Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or another technical degree.
• 5+ years of manufacturing experience.
• Demonstrated leadership competencies: change management, conflict resolution, escalation, and team management.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have

• Experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean manufacturing, and value‑stream mapping.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Experience with composite materials and large structural assemblies.
• Track record of working with a large and diverse workforce.

Additional Requirements

• Strictly hand‑based vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus ability.
• Ability to sit, use hands and fingers, operate a keyboard, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to the Middle River facility.
• Willingness to use powered machinery (fork trucks, scissor lifts, telehandlers).
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.

Pay Range (MD Only)

$115,000 – $160,000 USD

What to Expect

We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. The work demands hard effort, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on out‑thinking, out‑working, and out‑pacing. We thrive under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and stay focused on delivering outcomes rather than dwelling on obstacles.

EEO / Accessibility Statement

Rocket Lab provides equal employment…