About the Job
Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our e...
Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite pro...
Based out of Rocket Lab's Auckland, New Zealand facility, the Lead Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that the quality requirements for procured parts and processes are consistently met. Leading a team of highly capable Supplier Quality Engineers, you will act as a key liaison between internal sta...
Key Responsibilities
Proven ability to lead high-performing teams by fostering collaboration, driving accountability, and empowering team members to achieve exceptional results in dynamic and challenging environments.
Develop and implement robust supplier quality systems and processes to ensure consistent delivery of quality components and services.
Utilize tools and metrics to monitor supplier performance, providing visibility into quality trends and driving accountability.
Lead initiatives to improve purchased product quality, reduce non-conformances, and enhance supplier processes through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
Support suppliers in scaling production processes to meet future quality, cost, and delivery targets while introducing new products into production (NPI, APQP, PPAP).
Act as a bridge between suppliers, internal teams, and senior management to ensure alignment on technical requirements, production goals, and quality standards.
Required Skills & Abilities
5+ years in a quality role, preferably in regulated industries such as Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, or Industrial.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Mechatronic Engineering, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of quality systems, engineering drawings, GD&T, and specialized manufacturing processes like fabrication, CNC, PCBAs, and 3D printing.
Proficiency in root cause analysis tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, etc.) and practical problem-solving methodologies.
Proven ability to lead projects, manage supplier relationships, and drive quality improvements across the supply chain.
Ability to work extended hours, some nights or weekends when needed
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
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Work Authorization
Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO
