Lead Welder - Aerospace Tube Shop Leader

Rocket Lab Corporation; Middle River (MD); On-site; USD 51,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company equity

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with match

Paid vacation & sick leave

Snacks onsite

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corporation is seeking an experienced Lead Welder to oversee the Tube Shop manufacturing cell, driving daily operations, safety, and quality for end-to-end tube assemblies. You will manage work orders, coordinate with engineers, and coach technicians to meet production goals in a fast-paced aerospace setting.

The role requires 8+ years in tube manufacturing, strong FOD discipline, and a proven ability to lead teams.

Qualifications

• 8+ years hands-on experience in tube manufacturing including cutting, bending, flaring, TIG/OTW welding, and borescoping.
• Strong knowledge of FOD awareness and control.
• Experience opening and managing NCRs and collaborating with engineering teams.
• Proficient in 5S methodology and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations within the Tube Shop manufacturing cell.
• Conduct daily safety meetings to promote a safe working environment.
• Set weekly goals and expectations for the team to achieve production and quality targets.
• Assign work orders (WOs) to technicians and clearly communicate daily expectations.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication regarding status of assemblies and delivery dates.
• Open and manage new work orders, ensuring documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Identify and communicate non-conformities to engineering and initiate NCRs as needed.
• Maintain machines and tooling, order and replace tooling as required.
• Provide hands-on training across sub-cells to develop end-to-end tube manufacturing skills.
• Lead and champion 5S initiatives to maintain an organized, efficient environment.
• Ensure adherence to FOD awareness and control procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve processes and quality standards.

Skills

Tube cutting

TIG welding

OTW welding

Borescoping

FOD awareness

Leadership

Tools

NCR handling

5S implementation

Job description

Rocket Lab Corporation is seeking an experienced Lead Welder to oversee the Tube Shop manufacturing cell, driving daily operations, safety, and quality for end-to-end tube assemblies. You will manage work orders, coordinate with engineers, and coach technicians to meet production goals in a fast-paced aerospace setting.

The role requires 8+ years in tube manufacturing, strong FOD discipline, and a proven ability to lead teams.