CNC Programmer

Rocket Lab USA Inc.; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA Inc. is seeking a CNC Programmer in Auckland, New Zealand, to take a leading role in their Fabrication and Machining team. You will be responsible for creating precision aerospace components and driving prototype development.

The ideal candidate brings over 8 years of experience in CNC machining, excellent communication skills, and proven expertise in CAM programming. Join a dedicated team focused on delivering high-quality products for space exploration.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Proven expertise in CNC machining and CAM programming.
• Self-sufficient in low-run job-shop machining.

Responsibilities

• Day-to-day machining of parts according to drawing specifications.
• Operate and maintain machinery, tooling and equipment.
• Develop and execute toolpath NC files using NX CAM.

Skills

CNC machining

CAM programming

GD&T knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Trade qualified in relevant industry

Job description

MANUFACTURING

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 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.

CNC PROGRAMMER

Based in Auckland, this is your opportunity to take a leading role in Rocket Lab’s Fabrication and Machining team, shaping the future of space exploration! As a senior expert in manual and CNC machining, you’ll be hands‑on in creating precision aerospace components for launch vehicles, Space Systems, and cutting‑edge R&D projects. From programming and operating CNC machines to crafting high‑tolerance parts, your work will drive prototype development and flight‑critical hardware production, all while ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Day‑to‑day machining of parts according to drawing specifications.
• Operate and maintain machinery, tooling and equipment.
• Develop, simulate, and execute toolpath NC files using NX CAM.
• Design and create holding fixtures as needed.
• Perform visual quality checks and measurements using GD&T standards.
• Maintain inventory of spares and consumables for efficient reordering.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Trade qualified in relevant industry.
• 8+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Proven expertise in CNC machining and CAM programming (ideally NX CAM).
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and measurement instruments.
• Self‑sufficient in low‑run job‑shop machining and precision mechanical assembly.
• Comfortable working to exacting standards.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Computer literacy and familiarity with smartphones/tablets.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 5‑axis machining experience.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and autonomously.
• High work ethic, initiative, and ability to remain calm under pressure.

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.