Lead Engineer, Tooling Design and Support

LEAD ENGINEER, TOOLING DESIGN AND SUPPORT

We are currently seeking a Lead Engineer for our Tooling, Test, and Infrastructure team based out of Rocket Lab's newest Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River, MD. The Lead Engineer will be responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of tooling, GSE, and test fo...

Manage a team of Engineers responsible for tooling, GSE, and test for Neutron

Coordinate a team focused on: 
 Production tooling: how we massively scale the production of Neutron and create mechanical tools which allow us to increase assembly accuracy, reduce set-up times, minimize crane use, etc. 
 Ground Support Equipment: design of equipment that interfaces with the vehicle for test, transport, and integration
Test: engineering coordination of qual tests and structural tests. 

Coordinate with structures team, other Lead Engineers, facilities, operations, and other major stakeholders to: 
 Manage facility-wide constraints 
Develop appropriate training plans to ensure technicians are qualified to perform the expected tasks 
 Major capital projects to introduce new production techniques as we scale production 
 Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.

In addition, the Lead Engineer will perform the following tasks in a leadership capacity: 
Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians  
Ensure robust planning, including project schedules 
Performance management for engineers on the team 
Recruiting where needed for additional engineers 

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree. 
5 + years of engineering design experience.  
Experience in a leadership position.
Demonstrated experience with large tooling and structures design 
Working knowledge of Siemens NX/Teamcenter  
Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as metallic machining, welding, and fabrication.  
Experience with structural analysis including hand calcs and FEA
Ability to read and interpret P&ID’s and wiring diagrams.  
Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to escalate / request help, effectively manage a team

 
Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods 
Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed 
Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision 
Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed 
Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas. 

 
 

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO