Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Fluid ComponentsRocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more. Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Fluid ComponentsBased out of Rocket Lab’s headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Fluid Components is responsible for bringing fluid component designs into the real world and assuring they meet the stringent requirements needed for the Neutron program. You will support the Director of Manufacturing and Production/Fluid Systems organizations by standing up a new component development area, supporting component designs early and leading assembly of Neutron components.What You’ll Get To Do:Influence the design of critical Neutron components early in the program to aid in producibility, cost and reliabilityOversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisionsWhen required, lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigationsQuickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformancesCollaborate with the quality team to identify and drive quality-related initiatives and improvementsLiaison between production, quality, supply chain and design engineering staff for complex problem solving and process changesLead the continuous improvement process via Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniquesDevelop, introduce, and maintain new planning, production, quality, ERP, data collection and analysis, and other processes where none existYou’ll Bring These Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline5+ years of experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or qualification testingThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:Previous history of planning, building, activating & operating component test stands for development, qualification and production acceptance testing8+ years of experience troubleshooting valves, actuators, regulators or similar fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or qualification testingStrong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid componentsExperience with assembly & testing of turbomachinery and combustion devicesExtensive experience using fundamentals of fluid and structural mechanics to solve component issues in a fast-paced environmentAdditional Requirements: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 writingMust be physically able to commute to buildingsOccasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noiseAvailability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedulesLevel and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.Base Pay Range (CA Only) $115,000 - $165,000 USDWe’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.