Manufacturing Engineer II/Senior - Machining

Rocket Lab USA; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a pioneering team at a leading space technology company as a Manufacturing Engineer specializing in Machining. This role offers a unique opportunity to develop machining processes for advanced rocket engines. You will contribute to design reviews, enhance quality and efficiency, and mentor emerging talent in a dynamic manufacturing environment. With a commitment to innovation and teamwork, this position is perfect for those passionate about making a significant impact in the aerospace industry. Elevate your career and help shape the future of space exploration!

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

401(k)

Stock options

Qualifications

• 2+ years of machine shop experience for Manufacturing Engineer II.
• 5+ years of machine shop experience for Senior Manufacturing Engineer.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design reviews and improve machining processes.
• Procure and maintain machine shop equipment.
• Mentor less experienced engineers and machinists.

Skills

NX CAM programming

5-axis CNC machining

GD&T knowledge

Lean/Six Sigma

capacity modeling

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering

Tools

3D CAD software

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer II/Senior - Machining

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. Our rockets and satellites enable ambitious space missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change efforts, national security, and technological demonstrations. Since 2018, our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit, and we are developing the Neutron rocket, a reusable, 13-tonne payload class vehicle for future mega constellations. Our space systems include satellites and components used in over 1,700 missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, and Mars Ingenuity helicopter.

Join our pioneering team and elevate your career in space technology!

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer specializing in Machining, based at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This role involves developing machining processes for new products and revisions related to the Rutherford engine and the Archimedes engine, offering a ground-floor opportunity in rocket engine manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

1. Contribute to design reviews, providing expertise in design for manufacture, machining, productivity, and quality control.
2. Procure, install, and maintain machine shop equipment; develop maintenance and calibration plans.
3. Develop in-house machining capabilities for Archimedes components with rapid iteration.
4. Design and implement tooling and equipment to improve quality, delivery, and cost efficiency.
5. Lead continuous improvement and cost reduction projects within fabrication.
6. Collaborate with other machine shops for alignment and support.
7. Mentor less experienced engineers and machinists daily.

Qualifications

For Manufacturing Engineer II:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or related field.
• At least 2 years of machine shop experience.
• Proficiency in NX CAM programming and operating 5-axis CNC machines.
• Knowledge of GD&T and inspection methods.

For Senior Manufacturing Engineer:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or related field.
• At least 5 years of machine shop experience.
• Proficiency in NX CAM programming and operating 5-axis CNC machines.
• Knowledge of GD&T and inspection methods.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma, and value stream mapping.
• Over 8 years of machine shop experience.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Machining turbomachinery and combustion components.
• Familiarity with post-processing, additive manufacturing, and welding techniques.

Additional Requirements

• Vision abilities including close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception.
• Ability to sit, operate computers, and communicate effectively.
• Physical ability to commute and work in a manufacturing environment.
• Availability for long hours, weekends, and shift rotations as needed.

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 USD, depending on experience and qualifications. Rocket Lab offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, 401(k), stock options, and more.

Our Mission

We aim to unlock space potential to improve life on Earth through relentless innovation, teamwork, and perseverance. We value out-of-the-box thinking, dedication, and delivering under pressure.