AFP Operator - All Levels

About the role

Rocket Lab is building parts with the world's largest post-style automated fiber placement machine (AFP) at our Space Structures Complex in Middle River. As an AFP Operator you’ll get to build some of the largest carbon fiber composite fuselage structures ever made using cutting-edge technologies and space grade materials.

Responsibilities

• Run the Rocket Lab Automated Fiber Placement machine to build very large carbon fiber structures for our Neutron Rocket
• Work with Engineering and Programming teams on continuous improvement of our processes
• Engage directly with a total preventive maintenance program to ensure all equipment stays in safe and efficient condition
• Train in new processes and transition new components to AFP manufacturing
• Assist in setting up and calibrating the AFP machine for optimal performance
• Load and off-load composite tooling from the AFP machine
• Gain hands-on experience in loading and unloading composite materials onto the AFP machine, ensuring proper alignment and placement for the lamination process.

Qualifications

• AFP Operator I: High School Diploma or GED, Experience in Composites production and manufacturing.
• AFP Operator II: High School Diploma or GED, 2+ years of experience in Composites production and manufacturing.
• AFP Operator III: High School Diploma or GED, 5+ years of experience in Composites production and manufacturing.
• Senior AFP Operator: High School Diploma or GED, 8+ years of experience in Composites production and manufacturing.

Benefits

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, and free snacks/drinks onsite.

Pay

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $20 - $40 USD

Schedule

Stand and walk extended periods (8+ hours) on production floor
Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

Additional requirements

• Stand and walk extended periods (8+ hours) on production floor
• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment 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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.