CMM Programmer III

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 51,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock Purchase Plan

Medical Plans

Dental & Vision

Paid Time Off

401(k) Match

EV Charging

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a CMM Programmer III to perform complex inspections of aerospace components, using PC-DMIS to program and operate CMMs, and to document non-conformances in Rocket Lab systems.

The role requires 5+ years in a quality manufacturing environment, GD&T experience, and hands‑on use of hand tools, microscopes, and other measurement instruments, with a focus on collaboration with engineering and production teams.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a quality manufacturing environment.
• GD&T experience.
• Ability to program and operate a CMM using PC-DMIS software
• High level of experience using hand measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, feeler gauges, pine gauges, thread gauges, surface roughness measurement, etc.
• Experience in using measurement instruments like comparators and microscopes.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex mechanical inspections for purchased parts, 3D-printed components, CNC-machined items, electro-mechanical components, and propulsion assemblies.
• Perform all types of precision inspections, including receiving, in process and final assembly inspections. This includes capability to effectively use hand measurement tools, Microscopes and CMM’s.
• Thoroughly document non-conformances in accordance with Rocket Lab systems and procedures in our internal ERP, MES and Issue tracking system.
• Collaborate with engineering and management to improve work instructions and identify critical inspection points in the process.
• Coordinate with Production personnel to prioritize workload and enable the team to meet key delivery milestones.
• Embody a Built in Quality philosophy, consistently detecting non-conformances (Don’t accept a Defect – Don’t Pass a Defect) and preventing escapes to downstream customers.

Skills

GD&T experience

PC-DMIS programming

CMM operation

Hand tools & measurement

Microscopes & comparators

Team collaboration

Tools

PC-DMIS

Jira

Power BI

LN

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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 to 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 rockethas 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.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

CMM PROGRAMMER III

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the CMM Programmer III (PC-DMIS) is responsible for carrying out inspections using, but not limited to, prescribed inspection criteria. A high level of attention to detail to detect anything related to the product that does not meet engineering/production standards. In addition to inspecting, an ability to steer and guide decisions to bring the quality process to the highest standard possible is required, this includes problem solving capability and clear communication skills.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Perform complex mechanical inspections for purchased parts, 3D-printed components, CNC-machined items, electro-mechanical components, and propulsion assemblies.
• Perform all types of precision inspections, including receiving, in process and final assembly inspections. This includes capability to effectively use hand measurement tools, Microscopes and CMM’s.
• Thoroughly document non-conformances in accordance with Rocket Lab systems and procedures in our internal ERP, MES and Issue tracking system.
• Collaborate with engineering and management to improve work instructions and identify critical inspection points in the process.
• Coordinate with Production personnel to prioritize workload and enable the team to meet key delivery milestones.
• Embody a Built in Quality philosophy, consistently detecting non-conformances (Don’t accept a Defect – Don’t Pass a Defect) and preventing escapes to downstream customers.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A CMM PROGRAMMER III

• 5+ years of experience in a quality manufacturing environment.
• Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) experience.
• Ability to program and operate a CMM using PC-DMIS software
• High level of experience using hand measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, feeler gauges, pine gauges, thread gauges, surface roughness measurement, etc.
• Experience in using measurement instruments like comparators and microscopes.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Working proficiency with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies and Fault Tree Analysis.
• Pareto analysis, root cause and corrective action experience.
• Inspection experience with aerospace propulsion components & assemblies.
• Experience working with Jira, LN and Power Bi’s.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 5:00am – 3:30pm Friday – Sunday (3 Days X 10 Hrs.)
• Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces
• Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, awkward positions, and tight areas as needed
• Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and stooping
• Use hands with precision to handle, control, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
• Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

Hourly Pay Range (CA Only)

$37 — $47 USD

Level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry‑leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top‑tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

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.

Important information:

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.