Quality Engineer I/II - Space 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!

SPACE SYSTEMS

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in Rocket Lab’s evolution into an end-to-end space company that delivers launch, spacecraft, and on-orbit operations. The Space Systems Division is shaping Rocket Lab’s future with Photon, our brand of high-performance satellites, enabling innovative missions in low Earth orbit and beyond including missions for NASA to LEO, the Moon, and Mars and commercial customers, including leading the design and manufacture of 17 high-power telecommunication spacecraft buses for Globalstar.

Rocket Lab is also growing our spacecraft components business, anchored on the acquisition of Sinclair Interplanetary manufacturing reaction wheels and star trackers in Toronto, SolAero Technologies manufacturing solar power and primary structure solutions in Albuquerque, Planetary Systems Corporation manufacturing launch separation systems in Silver Spring, and Advanced Solutions, Inc., provider of flight and ground software as a service in Denver. Our components business is key to vertically integrating our spacecraft solutions and enabling constellations for customers.

QUALITY ENGINEER II / SENIOR QUALITY ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Quality Engineer II/Senior Quality Engineer is responsible for Space Systems Assembly operations including Spacecraft assembly support, electromechanical assemblies, Non-conformance management, CAPA and Customer deliverables. Focus will be on eliminating mission risks and increasing productivity. 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:

• Identify and prioritize risks to mission success.
• Create action plans and lead execution of tasks to resolve problems.
• Steer cross-functional teams to focus on top-impact actions and hold people accountable for achieving expected milestones.
• Support and/or lead process failure mode and effect analysis.
• Drive implementation of built-in quality fundamentals – Check-Do-Check.
• Provide rapid response and problem resolution for containment and risk mitigation activities.
• Identify and categorize quality problems that are impacting the company’s ability to deliver conforming hardware on schedule.
• Lead team to deep dive the top problems and properly identify and resolve the root cause of the issues, applying tools like 5 Whys, Cause and Effect analysis and 8Ds.
• Lead PFMEA activities.
• Support Quality inspection team

(This position can be hired as a Quality Engineer II / Senior Quality Engineer)

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A QUALITY ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or industrial engineering, or equivalent.
• Experience in Aerospace industry.
• Experience in Assembly and integration.
• GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with AS9100

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A QUALITY ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or industrial engineering, or equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience in a quality role
• Experience in Aerospace industry.
• Experience in Assembly and integration.
• GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with AS9100

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience developing new systems and processes.
• Strong data analytics and visualization skills.
• Pareto analysis, root cause and corrective action experience.
• Experience in the aerospace industry or other quality-critical industries.
• Minitab or other statistica