Director, Manufacturing Finance

About the Company Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components and more. The rockets and satellites we build and launch support scientific exploration, Earth observation, missions to combat climate change, national security and new technology demonstrations. About the Role Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Director of Manufacturing Finance is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial operations, planning, and analysis within the manufacturing function. This individual acts as a key business partner to the Chief Operations Officer and the manufacturing leadership team, driving financial performance, operational efficiency and cost optimization across production facilities and supply chain operations. The Director reports directly to the Vice President of Finance and works closely with the COO and other senior executives. Responsibilities Serve as the primary financial advisor to the COO and manufacturing leadership team, providing guidance on cost management, capital investments and operational efficiencies. Develop and implement financial strategies that align with manufacturing goals and overall business objectives. Lead financial planning and forecasting processes for manufacturing operations, ensuring accuracy and alignment with corporate targets. Oversee the preparation of detailed financial analyses, including cost variance analysis, production efficiency metrics and profitability assessments. Lead program accounting efforts and monitor key performance indicators related to manufacturing costs, inventory management and supply chain performance. Present financial insights and recommendations to senior executives and stakeholders. Drive cost reduction initiatives across manufacturing operations, including labor, materials, overhead and supply chain expenses. Collaborate with operations teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and waste reduction. Ensure accurate product costing to support profitability goals. Evaluate and prioritize capital investment opportunities in manufacturing facilities and equipment. Lead financial due diligence for new projects, ensuring alignment with ROI and payback criteria. Monitor capital expenditures and ensure adherence to budgets. Partner with plant managers and supply chain leaders to improve operational performance and financial outcomes. Provide financial expertise to support decisions related to production planning, inventory management and procurement strategies. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to align financial goals with operational objectives. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or a related field. 15+ years of progressive experience in finance with a focus on manufacturing or supply‑chain operations. Proven track record of driving cost optimization initiatives. Experience in managing large‑scale budgets and capital projects. Ability to travel occasionally to manufacturing facilities and supply‑chain locations. Nice to Have MBA or CPA preferred. Compensation Base Pay Range (CA only): $190,000—$220,000 USD. Benefits Base salary is one component of our total rewards package. Employees may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package that includes top‑tier medical HMO, PPO, 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, on‑site gym, food and drinks and other discounts. Important Information To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Rocket Lab employees must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees or persons granted asylum, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process should contact Giulia Johnson at View email address on click.appcast.io. For work in New Zealand, background checks include nationality checks; eligibility requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU or a NATO member country, or no ineligible dual citizenship. #J-18808-Ljbffr