CNC Programmer

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An aerospace company based in Warkworth is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer to join their Composite Machining team. You will be crucial in converting CAD models into precision parts for launch vehicles and R&D projects. The ideal candidate has over 8 years of experience in CNC machining and CAM programming, with strong knowledge of GD&T. This role involves maintaining equipment, quality checks, and collaboration with engineers on cutting-edge aerospace components, making an impact on 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.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Machining parts according to drawing specifications.
• Operate and maintain machinery and equipment.
• Develop and execute toolpath NC files.
• 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.

Skills

CNC machining

CAM programming

GD&T knowledge

Communication skills

precision assembly

communication skills

self-sufficient

Education

Trade qualification

Tools

Mastercam

Job description

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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 Warkworth, this is your chance to play a key role in Rocket Lab’s cutting‑edge Composite Machining team! As a senior expert in Composite CNC machining, you’ll bring aerospace components to life, turning CAD models into precision parts that power Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles, Space Systems, and groundbreaking R&D projects. Collaborate with top engineers and work on flight‑critical hardware that drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of space exploration! 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 Mastercam.
• 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 in Mastercam.
• 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.