Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer II – Fluid Systems

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II or Senior – Fluid Systems to develop and optimize propulsion component fabrication, assembly, and testing processes. You will apply advanced welding, additive manufacturing, and tooling methods to achieve aerospace quality and reliability.

Responsibilities include process qualification, problem solving, and cross‑functional collaboration. The role requires a mechanical or aerospace engineering degree with 2+ years (II) or 5+

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, or related engineering field.
• 2+ years of experience developing and introducing fabrication methods such as OTW, TIG, proof testing and cleaning.
• Experience setting up and/or operating a tube shop or build area.
• Senior level requires 5+ years of such experience and broader scope.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and improve propulsion component fabrication and assembly processes.
• Qualify welding and fabrication of tubing components to aerospace specifications.
• Use TIG, MIG, OTW and other methods to ensure structural integrity.
• Inspect welded components using NDE/NDT methods and address defects.
• Collaborate with engineering to interpret and implement design specs.
• Lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations when needed.
• Drive quality improvements with the quality team and production staff.
• Plan and execute capital equipment and layout upgrades with business cases.

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline

5+ years experience for Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Fluid Systems (or 2+ years for the II level)

Job description

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II or Senior – Fluid Systems to develop and optimize propulsion component fabrication, assembly, and testing processes. You will apply advanced welding, additive manufacturing, and tooling methods to achieve aerospace quality and reliability.

Responsibilities include process qualification, problem solving, and cross‑functional collaboration. The role requires a mechanical or aerospace engineering degree with 2+ years (II) or 5+