CNC Operator

Rocket Lab Corporation; Warkworth; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a CNC Operator to manufacture highly complex space components in our New Zealand manufacturing facility. You will set up fixtures, run programs, and perform in-process inspection on CNC machines, contributing to rockets and satellite components.

Day and night shifts, fortnightly pattern with 1pm–1am times are available. Ideal candidates bring proven CNC experience with Fanuc or Siemens controls, strong mechanical aptitude, ability to read blueprints, and meticulous

Qualifications

• Experience as CNC Operator with Fanuc or Siemens controls.

Responsibilities

• Set up fixtures and align work coordinates.
• Verify safety and accuracy of programs through simulations and dry runs.
• Perform in-process inspection and measurement of parts.
• Support Research and Development tasks as required.

Skills

Fanuc / Siemens controls

CNC Operator experience

Mechanical aptitude

Reading drawings

Precision measurement

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Time management

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Tools

Calipers

Optical comparator

Job description

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing team 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 techniquesand are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

As a CNC Operator at Rocket Lab you will play a crucial role in the production of highly complex components that are destined for space. You will work in a clean, environment alongside other skilled professionals, using modern CNC equipment. Your attention to detail, technical expertise, and commitment to quality will contribute to our overall manufacturing success.

Our machining facility operates the following repeating fortnightly pattern: Day & Night Shifts Available.

• Week 1: Four days on, three days off. 1pm – 1am
• Week 2: Three days on, four days off. 1pm – 1am

Key aspects of the role include:

• All aspects of machine setting including fixture set up and alignment, setting work coordinate systems, tool setting, loading and measurement
• Proving safety and accuracy of programs through simulation, dry runs and checking code prior to running
• In process part inspection and measurement
• Support Research and Development tasks as required

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Fanuc and/or Siemens controls
• Proven experience as a CNC Operator
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Proficiency in using precision measuring tools
• High level of workmanship
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot machine issues
• Time management and organisational abilities
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift moderately heavy materials
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other team members
• Communicate clearly and professionally

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Manual turning and milling experience would be an advantage
• Takes initiative and remains calm under pressure
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets
• Experience (or interest) in working in a fabrication/machining environment
• Previous experience in aviation, motorsports or defense

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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.

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 [e-mail]. 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.