Senior Manufacturing Engineer (CNC Machining)

Rocket Lab; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer specializing in CNC machining to support its mission of advancing 3D printing technology. The role focuses on developing and optimizing CNC programs for high-value metal components in a fast-paced environment, engaging with cutting-edge machinery and collaborative teams. Ideal candidates will have extensive programming expertise and a passion for innovative manufacturing solutions.

Benefits

Significant stock option packages

100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Free daily catered lunch and dinner

Relocation assistance provided

Casual dress and flexible work hours

Qualifications

• 5+ years of 5-axis CNC programming and machining experience required.
• Experience with machining metals like aluminum and titanium is preferred.
• NTMA machinist certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize CNC programs for complex metal components.
• Refine operations on multi-axis CNC machines for maximum efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with quality control processes and safety regulations.

Skills

CNC Programming

Problem-Solving

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

MasterCAM

DMG Mori 5-axis machines

Job description

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER (CNC MACHINING)

Freeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology stack leverages advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to produce digitally-verified, flawless parts at unprecedented speed and cost. Our mission is to make the transformative power of 3D printing available to all industries at scale and unlock the future of innovation.

As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer (CNC Machining), you will play a critical role in achieving Freeform’s goal of becoming the world leader in the post-processing of high-value metal 3D printed parts. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing CNC programs for precision machining operations as well as working closely with our engineers and machinist to establish machining standards for Freeform’s high-volume, vertically integrated machining workflow. You’ll use top of the line multi-axis machines—including DMG Mori and Haas—to develop complex geometries and refine machining processes for maximum efficiency, quality, and repeatability. The ideal candidate is highly technical, hands-on, and thrives in a fast-paced development environment. If you want to be at the forefront of the next era of manufacturing technology, we’d love to hear from you!

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here—we look for smart, motivated, and collaborative individuals who love tackling complex challenges and building world-class technology!

Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and optimize CNC programs for complex metal components, including post-processing of 3D printed parts
• Program, set up, and refine operations on multi-axis CNC machines (DMG Mori and Haas)
• Interpret CAD models, technical drawings, and GD&T specifications to create highly precise machining programs
• Select and optimize cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies for efficiency and repeatability
• Troubleshoot and resolve CNC programming issues, collaborating with machinists and design engineers
• Maintain and update CNC program libraries, best practices, and process documentation
• Implement process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, and increase machine utilization
• Work on the production floor to provide technical support, training, and hands-on troubleshooting as needed
• Ensure compliance with quality control processes, industry standards, and safety regulations

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 5+ years of 5-axis CNC programming and machining experience
• Experience with MasterCAM
• Experience with DMG Mori 5-axis machines
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, or Inconel

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• NTMA machinist certification or equivalent training
• Experience with Siemens controls
• Familiarity with metal 3D printed parts and their post-processing requirements
• Familiarity with machining castings or forgings
• Strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to debugging machining processes
• Experience with quality control tools, including CMM, micrometers, and thread gauges
• Ability to work with power tools, hand tools, cranes, forklifts, and other heavy equipment
• Comfortable lifting/moving up to 30 lbs and standing for extended periods
• Willingness to work overtime when needed

Location:

• We are located in Hawthorne, CA in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises.

What We Offer:

• We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions.
• We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology.
• Benefits
  • Significant stock option packages
  • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options)
  • Life insurance
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k)
  • Relocation assistance provided
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent
  • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette
  • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events
• Compensation
  • As a growing company, the salary range is intentionally wide as we determine the most appropriate package for each individual taking into consideration years of experience, educational background, and unique skills and abilities as demonstrated throughout the interview process. Our intent is to offer a salary that is commensurate for the company’s current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role.
  • In addition to the significant stock option package, the estimated pay range for this role is $110,000 - $200,000 per year, the upper end of the range for exceptional candidates with demonstrated expertise in relevant machines, software, and industry work.
• Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.