Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Electron Propulsion

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!

MANUFACTURING  

 

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing teams are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware, and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.   

 

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER – ELECTRON PROPULSION  

Based out of Rocket Lab's Engine Development Center in Long Beach, CA the Senior Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing process improvements and product revisions as related to the Rutherford rocket engine. You will support the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors and investors.   

 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor signoffs.  

• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and when required, lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.  

• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.  

• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S.  

• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems.  

• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.  

• Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.  

• Implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning.  

 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  

• 5+ years of professional engineering experience in a highly regulated manufacturing environment  

• Understanding of fluid and structural mechanics fundamentals  

• Knowledge in manufacturing processes for aerospace materials 

 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Master’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  

• 8+ years of manufacturing engineering experience preferably with fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or qualification testing 

• Stro