Senior CNC Machinist​/Programmer

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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!

Based out of Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex facility in Middle River, Maryland. The Master CNC Machinist will maintain, set up program and operate the CNC machines to build flight-ready hardware that meet Rocket Lab specification at the needed rate.

Space Structures Complex is hiring for multiple shift schedules.

• Work with large CNC machines to produce carbon fiber components for our Neutron rocket.
• Use Mastercam to program safe and efficient toolpaths
• Machine a range of tooling materials to produce large composite molds and tools to support production
• Design and manufacture fixtures and tooling to enable machining of components
• Read and translate drawings/CAD models
• Develop and improve manufacturing processes
• Be responsible for sourcing and testing new tooling solutions to improve productivity
• Provide feedback to Engineering to improve manufacturability
• Work to identify and reduce any non-conformances
• Provide improvement ideas on batch sizes, setups, tool selection etc
• Track calibration and maintenance of all equipment and tooling in the area

• HS Diploma and 8+ years of CNC Milling experience
• Experience programming and operating a 5 Axis CNC
• Familiar with the use of MasterCAM
• In depth knowledge of GD&T
• Ability to read and interpreting technical drawings
• Strong knowledge of machine workings, maintenance and calibration.

• Experience in an Aerospace Manufacturing Environment
• Experience running CMS CNC machines (Poseidon, Ares) or similar large 5 axis gantry style machines.
• Experience operating machines that have a Fanuc control
• Experience with CAD design preferably NX or Mastercam
• Experience working with composite materials (Carbon fiber/fiberglass)
• Manual Programming (understand and diagnose g-code)

• 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 aproductionenvironment with noise, moving machinery, and varyingenvironmentalconditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

#RL1

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible…