Quality Engineering Lead- Launch Systems

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

Quality Engineering Lead- Launch Systems

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Quality Engineering Lead- Launch Systems is responsible for overseeing the introduction and properly implementation of new products and product revisions as related to both Rutherford and Archimedes engines. You will support the Quality Manager and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Develop and implement new Quality Control Processes and Standards.
• Lead, facilitate, and participate in root cause investigations.
• Ensure adherence to QMS policy and procedures within their work center and creation of procedures when needed.
• Efficiently communicate status of evaluation and disposition to leadership.
• Lead and coordinate management of non-conforming hardware, including ticket dispositions, analysis, and improvement projects.
• Lead cost saving initiatives, especially related to product yield.
• Contribute to design reviews to reduce quality risk and time lost due to non-conformances.
• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S
• Lead a team of Quality engineers through development and improvement initiatives.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial, material sciences engineering, or similar engineering discipline 
• 5+ years of experience as a quality engineer in mechanical focused manufacturing environment
• Hands-on quality and testing experience
• Strong Knowledge of quality tools such as Lean principles, Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action, Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Metrology, Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Control Plans, or various problem-solving approaches.
• 3+ years of experience in a leadership position.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced engineering degree (Preferably, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace)
• Strong GD&T Knowledge
• Experience successfully overseeing developing and introducing new product(s) to production.
• Proven track record of year-on-year product and process improvement activities.
• Conducted both process and design failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA).
• Track record of leveraging new technologies to develop real shop floor solutions.
• Propulsion manufacturing experience and testing highly desirable.
• Experience supporting production of complex, mechanical, or composites systems in high volume work centers and/or during production ramp-up
• Advanced engineering degree (Preferably, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace)
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components
• Experience with assembly & testing of turbomachinery and combustion devices

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by 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. 
• Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules 

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 experi