Manufacturing Engineer II

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 Manufacturing teams are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing...

Based out of Rocket Lab's Production Complex in Auckland, New Zealand, the Senior Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing process improvements and product revisions as related to the Rutherford rocket engine. You will support the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization, with de...

Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements, and supervisor signoffs.  
Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and when required, lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.  
Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery, and/or cost performance.  
Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S.  
Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems.  
Contribute to design reviews, acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.  
Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.  
Implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning.  

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  
2+ years of professional engineering experience in a highly regulated manufacturing environment  
Understanding of fluid and structural mechanics fundamentals  
Knowledge in manufacturing processes for aerospace materials 
Master’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  
3+ years' of manufacturing engineering experience, preferably with fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts, or qualification testing 
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components 
Experience with assembly & testing of turbomachinery and combustion devices  
Experience with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area  
Experience with manufacturing processes, including but not limited to TIG, EB, and laser welding, heat treating, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining and precision cleaning  
Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of a cross-functional team in a fast-paced, iterative design environment  
Experience performing root cause and corrective action projects and PFMEA/DFMEA of manufacturing processes and products  
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 
Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules
 
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.   

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO