Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Machining

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a pioneering team at the forefront of space technology as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer focusing on Machining. This role involves driving innovation in machining processes for advanced rocket engines, contributing to design reviews, and mentoring upcoming engineers. You'll be part of a mission-driven organization that values teamwork, grit, and relentless innovation. If you're passionate about engineering and want to make a significant impact in the aerospace industry, this opportunity is your launchpad to success.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of machine shop experience with strong machining skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent experience required.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design reviews and improve manufacturing processes.
• Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and machinists.

Skills

Machine Shop Experience

NX CAM Programming

5-axis CNC Operation

GD&T Knowledge

Quality Control

Continuous Improvement

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

3D CAD Software

Lean/Six Sigma Tools

Job description

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Machining

Long Beach, California, United States

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.

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

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER - MACHINING

We are currently seeking a Senior 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 as related to the Rutherford engine and the Archimedes engine.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

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

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

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

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible.

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, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type.

APPLY FOR THIS JOB