Manufacturing Engineer I​/II

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.

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 reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

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

• Plan and execute the build and integration of Neutron and associated flight hardware.
• Develop con‑ops, design, and drive build of associated ground support tooling and processes for handling components, large assemblies, and integrated modules.
• Develop build methods to increase throughput, reduce opportunities for errors, and simplify processes.
• Support Neutron integration engineers in developing and enabling day‑to‑day execution of the 1st and 2nd stage vehicle integration, fluid system, avionics, and AFTS.
  • Development and refinement of inspection, repair/retrofit, assembly, and system test procedures.
  • Collect and document feedback for design and manufacturing teams through lessons learned during the build.
  • Develop clear work instructions to ensure good communication between engineering and technicians.
  • Contribute, develop, and own build procedures and documentation of non‑conformances into actionable items and system improvements.
  • Maintain integrated planning documents that are inclusive of Launch Vehicle configurations and work scope.
  • Design and develop tools and hardware to enable vehicle processing and ensure required testing abilities.
  • Develop, build, and maintain Neutron processing facilities.
  • Closely collaborate with management staff and peers from other departments and highly skilled technicians on daily routine.
• Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus towards common project goals.

• Bachelor of Science degree in industrial, mechanical, or aerospace engineering, or related degree required.
• Experience in building and testing hardware associated with space launch vehicles or similar aerospace and defense hardware. (internships and school projects qualify)
• Demonstrated ability to model with 3D CAD, produce prints, and work with large assemblies.

• Bachelor of Science degree in industrial, mechanical, or aerospace engineering, or related degree required.
• 2+ years of experience in building and testing hardware associated with space launch vehicles or similar aerospace and defense hardware. (internships and school projects qualify)
• Demonstrated ability to model with 3D CAD, produce prints, and work with large assemblies.

• Proven ability to interface with multidisciplinary functions of mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems.
• Experience and demonstrated proficiency in developing and implementing comprehensive work instructions and test procedures.
• Experience working directly with launch vehicle and/or launch vehicle hardware and subsystems including avionics, high‑pressure gas, structures,…