Job Description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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, national security, and technology demonstrations. Since 2018, our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit, and our upcoming Neutron rocket will be a reusable, 13-tonne payload class launcher for future mega constellations. Our space systems include satellites and components that have supported 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!

MANUFACTURING

Rocket Labs Manufacturing team builds and operates advanced machinery across global sites, transforming engineer designs into hardware using techniques like 3D printing. They ensure projects and missions are delivered on time and within budget.

SPACE SYSTEMS MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II/SENIOR

Based at Rocket Lab's Long Beach, CA headquarters, this role involves process development and sustainment for high-performance Defense and Intelligence Space missions. You will help develop technologies for missions to the Moon, Venus, and Mars, supporting leadership, board, and investors.

This position can be hired as a Space Systems Manufacturing Engineer II or Senior.

WHAT YOULL DO:

1. Contribute to design reviews, focusing on manufacturability, testability, productivity, and quality.
2. Manage the introduction of new products and revisions.
3. Perform Value Stream Mapping, develop manufacturing plans, and design production cells.
4. Define factory layouts, select equipment, and oversee FAT, SAT, and commissioning.
5. Justify capital and facilities, manage projects, and implement improvements.
6. Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions.
7. Drive continuous improvement using lean tools like 5S.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEER II:

• Bachelors in Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Mechanical Engineering.
• At least 2 years of manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of EEE components, PCB, PCBA, electromechanical assembly, tooling, testing, and quality techniques.
• Ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits and manufacturing issues.
• Understanding of clean room protocols.
• Experience with spacecraft assembly standards.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR SENIOR ENGINEER:

• Bachelors in relevant engineering field.
• Over 5 years of manufacturing experience.
• Same technical knowledge as Engineer II, with additional experience.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Advanced engineering degree.
• Over 8 years of experience.
• Experience with environmental testing, instrumentation, and production support.
• Knowledge of DFMEA, PFMEA, Fault Tree, root cause analysis.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Vision abilities including close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and focus.
• Ability to sit, operate computers, communicate effectively.
• Must be able to commute to work locations.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, noise.
• Willingness to work long hours and weekends as needed.

Salary depends on experience and skills. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, 401(k), stock options, gym, and more.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We aim to unlock space's potential to improve life on Earth through innovation, teamwork, and determination. We value collaboration, resilience, and delivering results under pressure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

US Candidates: Must be U.S. citizens or eligible to work under export regulations. Learn more here .

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer. For accommodations during the application process, contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com .

New Zealand Candidates: Background checks and citizenship eligibility (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU, NATO) are required. More info here .

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