Lead Tool Design Engineer

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!

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 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!

LEAD TOOL DESIGN ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Lead Tool Design Engineer is responsible for developing the team that will focus on design, specification, analysis, procurement, and operation of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and tooling used across all programs and sites. You will support the Director of Manufacturing and Production and Design organizations, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Coach, mentor and develop engineers to achieve new heights in their careers.
• Perform weekly, quarterly and yearly reviews with their direct employees
• Interview and hire candidates to fill new roles
• Create team goals and metrics to drive continuous improvement projects
• Lead/organize meetings as necessary to drive project completion
• Design, analyze, procure, and implement tooling (GSE) ranging in complexity from basic handling fixtures to engine or vehicle level test fixtures.
• Own manufacturing, schedule, and sourcing of critical production tools
• Interact with Numeric Control (N/C) programmers, welders, machinists, shop personnel, outside suppliers and engineers to ensure flawless and timely execution of projects
• Source, retain, and advise new and experienced vendors from a technical and manufacturing perspective
• Collaborate with vehicle manufacturing engineers and designers on improvements for design for manufacturing
• Develop the standards, fabrication methods, and sourcing strategies used by the tooling organization
• Design and lead the fabrication and sourcing of tooling aids, supporting equipment, and specialized hardware to enable rocket production

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline
• 8+ years experience in mechanical tooling design and analysis
• 5+ years of technical project management or manufacturing design experience
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principals
• FEA Analysis and hand calculations of structural, mechanical or fluid components.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other technical field
• Tooling manufacturing experience within the aerospace, automotive, or other large format fabrication industries
• Knowledge of heat transfer, fluids and structural mechanics
• Project management experience in a fast-paced prototype fabrication shop environment
• Knowledge of manufacturing methods for large precision structures and equipment
• Detailed knowledge of quality standards for typical fabrication and production products
• Experience integrating hydraulic and pneumatic controlled systems
• Detailed knowledge of Siemens NX or similar CAD and PLM packages
• Strong communication skills with both peer engineers and shop floor technicians
• Proficient with all types of hand tools and basic fabrication equipment
• Un