Manufacturing Engineer I/II - Machining

Futureshaper.com; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join their innovative team in Long Beach, CA. This role focuses on machining development for advanced rocket engines, offering the chance to work on groundbreaking projects. You will contribute to design reviews, develop in-house machining capabilities, and mentor less experienced engineers. With a commitment to continuous improvement and quality, this position promises an exciting opportunity to impact the aerospace industry significantly. If you're ready to launch your career to new heights, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Top tier medical HMO & PPO

100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan

Dental and vision coverage

3 weeks paid vacation

5 days sick leave

11 paid holidays

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Discounted employee stock purchase program

Subsidized EV charging stations

Onsite gym

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering.
• Hands-on experience in a machine shop is essential.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design reviews focusing on manufacturability and quality control.
• Select and install machine shop equipment; develop maintenance plans.

Skills

Machining

GD&T

CAM Software

5-axis CNC Equipment

Lean/Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's in Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

NX CAM

3D CAD Software

Job description

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

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!

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I/II - MACHINING

We are currently seeking an enthusiastic Manufacturing Engineer with a focus in Machining based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA. They will be responsible for the machining development of new products and product revisions related to the Rutherford engine (currently in use on the 2nd most frequently launched US rocket), and the Archimedes engine, where they will have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a novel rocket engine build!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

1. Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for machining, productivity, quality control, etc.
2. Select, procure, and install machine shop equipment along with developing maintenance/calibration plans.
3. Develop machining capability in-house for the Archimedes components and implement rapid iterations.
4. Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.
5. Responsible for continuous improvement and cost reduction projects belonging to the fabrication department.
6. Collaborate with other Rocket Lab machine shops for general alignment, capability, and support.
7. Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and machinists daily.

(This position can be hired as a Manufacturing Engineer I or Manufacturing Engineer II Level)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I - MACHINING:

1. Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
2. Hands-on experience in a machine shop.
3. Familiarity with CAM software and 5-axis CNC equipment.
4. Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II - MACHINING:

1. Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
2. 2+ years of machine shop experience.
3. Ability to rapidly iterate NX CAM programs and operate 5-axis CNC equipment.
4. Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

1. Working experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma, and value stream mapping.
2. 5+ years of machine shop experience.
3. Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
4. Experience machining turbomachinery and combustion device components.
5. Familiarity with post processing methods, AM, and welding.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
2. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
3. Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
4. Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.
5. Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules. This position will participate in a 2nd shift or weekend support rotation.

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. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other 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.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)$90,000—$120,000 USD