Manufacturing Engineer II/Senior - Machining

Manufacturing Engineer II / Senior - Machining

Long Beach, CA

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company devoted to delivering responsive launch services and building spacecraft, satellites, and rocket systems that serve scientific, Earth observation, national security, and emerging technology missions.

Our engineered products include the Electron rocket, currently the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, as well as the upcoming Neutron reusable vehicle. The Space Systems business builds our extensive line of satellites and payloads, collaborating on NASA missions and cutting‑edge space telescope components.

MANUFACTURING

The Manufacturing team turns engineering designs into production reality using advanced machining, 3D printing, and other manufacturing techniques. They deliver satellites, components, and rockets on schedule and within budget, ensuring quality and manufacturability.

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II / SENIOR - MACHINING

This role focuses on machining development for new products and revisions, particularly the Rutherford engine (currently used on the Electron) and the Archimedes engine, which offers a ground‑floor opportunity on a novel rocket engine design.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Act as an expert in design for manufacture, design for machining, productivity, and quality control during design reviews.
• Select, procure, and install machine shop equipment, and develop maintenance and calibration plans.
• Build in‑house machining capability for Archimedes components and execute rapid iterations.
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment to improve quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Lead continuous improvement and cost‑reduction projects within the fabrication department.
• Collaborate with other Rocket Lab machine shops for alignment, capability, and support.
• Mentor less experienced engineers and machinists.

(This position can be hired as a Manufacturing Engineer II or as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer.)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II - MACHINING:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
• At least 2+ years of machine shop experience.
• Proficiency in CAM software and 3‑ and 5‑axis CNC equipment.
• Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER - MACHINING:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
• At least 5+ years of machine shop experience.
• Proficiency in CAM software and 3‑ and 5‑axis CNC equipment.
• Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma, and value stream mapping.
• 8+ years of machine shop experience.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Experience machining turbomachinery and combustion device components.
• Familiarity with post‑processing methods, additive manufacturing (AM), and welding.
• NX CAM programming and operation of 5‑axis CNC machining.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Vision requirements: close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and focus.
• Ability to sit, use hands and fingers, operate a keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Physical ability to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.
• Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed.

Base Salary will be determined based on job‑related knowledge, education, and experience.

Employees may receive company equity and a comprehensive benefits package including medical HMO and PPO, 100% company‑sponsored HSA, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave, 11 paid holidays, flexible savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match. Additional perks may include a discounted stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging, onsite gym, food, and other employee discounts.

Base Pay Range (CA Only):
$100,000 - $155,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space and improve life on Earth. This requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and grit. Our people thrive under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and focus on delivering results rather than dwelling on challenges.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at View email address on click.appcast.io. This resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities that prevent them from applying or interviewing. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response may take up to two business days.