Tooling Engineer, Special Projects Division

Rocket Lab; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is looking for a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division. This role involves designing precision tooling systems for large-scale manufacturing, collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and efficiency in aerospace and defense production. Ideal candidates will possess a STEM degree and experience in tooling design.

Benefits

100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans

401k

Relocation stipend if moving from outside of LA

Flexible vacation policy

Qualifications

• Experience in designing tooling systems for complex or large-scale parts.
• Proficient in FEA and static analysis for tooling validation.
• Strong communication and teamwork in multidisciplinary environments.

Responsibilities

• Design structural and mechanical tooling for large components.
• Collaborate with teams to build, source, and implement tooling systems.
• Support testing and validation of tooling throughout production.

Skills

Manufacturing Processes

Tooling Design

3D Modeling

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Physics, or related STEM field

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

NX

ANSYS

Job description

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future

Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies make rockets, jets, and satellites 10x faster and 2x cheaper. Our CEO, Chris Power, discusses the importance of what we're building in this video.

We are a lean but mighty team (and growing!) people that are passionate about building critical infrastructure to support the nation and the advancement of humanity.

We've raised >$200m to achieve this vision, with multiple rounds from Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital and more.

We use AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are globally cost competitive and future-proof from the dramatic skilled labor shortage that is facing the Advanced Industrial Base.

Hadrian works with startups, Primes and Tier 1/2s in all markets to cost-down, scale or otherwise enable them to hit production rates on critical programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial and Military aircraft and other core, mission critical industries.

We are looking to hire both ICs and Managers! If you want to learn more, please apply or contact our team directly.

The Role

You will be a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division, collaborating directly with the CEO and engineering leadership. This division is responsible for focusing on ambitious R&D projects and serving as engineering experts on new business opportunities.

This foundational role centers on the design, development, and implementation of precision tooling systems that support efficient, high-quality, large-scale manufacturing. This role will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to create innovative tooling solutions for large parts and assemblies, with a focus on performance, reliability, and scalability.

You will play a key role in supporting new production capabilities by contributing hands-on technical work and strategic input.

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Design structural and mechanical tooling to support large components and assemblies.

• Collaborate with engineering teams and vendors to build, source, and implement tooling systems.

• Work with technicians and manufacturing teams to ensure proper installation and use of tooling.

• Support testing, validation, and continuous improvement of tooling across the production lifecycle.

• Provide clear documentation, technical guidance, and support for internal and external stakeholders.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and how tooling supports quality and production efficiency.

• Experience in designing tooling systems for complex or large-scale parts and assemblies, such as machining or welding.

• Ability to contribute to both prototyping and continuous improvement efforts.

• Demonstrated ability to perform FEA and static analysis to validate tooling under real-world conditions with proficiency in 3D modeling and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or ANSYS).

• Knowledge of material selection and fabrication techniques suitable for high-load or high-temperature environments.

What will set you apart:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Physics, or a related STEM field.

• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Comfortable working in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments with evolving priorities.

• Experience working with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and automation.
  

Benefits:

• 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees

• 401k

• Relocation stipend if you’re moving from outside of LA

• Flexible vacation policy

It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.