Senior Manufacturing Engineer

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.

Our Electron rockethas become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit all while we work to develop Neutron our upcoming medium-lift reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites payloads and their components including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

NEUTRON

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 Labs proven execution history with the Electron program. If youre 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!

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER

We are currently seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineerto be based at Rocket Labs 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.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• 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 1stand 2ndstage vehicle integration fluid system avionics and AFTS. Including:
• 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.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER

• Bachelor of Science degree in industrial mechanical or aerospace engineering or related degree required.
• 5 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

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 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 electrical and mechanical.
• Experience working on build test of complex assemblies at the system and sub-system level.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex projects which led to successful outcomes
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with the use of NX/Teamcenter

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sit at desk andoperatecomputerkeyboardand office equipment for extended periods
• Use hands with dexterity tooperatecontrolstoolsand technical equipment as needed
• Read technical documents drawings and computer screens requiring close and distance vision
• Move between buildings labs and work areas as needed
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure tonoisedustand fumesin production areas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats not an easy task. It takes hard work determination relentless innovation teamwork grit and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each others backs checking our egos at the door and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure work to tight deadlines and our focus is always on how we can deliver rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

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 (i.e. current Green Card holder) or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment 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 requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia Japan New Zealand Switzerland the European Union or a country that is part of NATO or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations click here ITAR Regulations.