Machine Operator- All Levels

About the role

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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.

Neutron

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.

MACHINE OPERATOR

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 Machine 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.

What You'll Get to Do

• 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

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

Nice to Have Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in a technical field
• Experience operating an AFP Machine
• Experience operating other robotic equipment
• Experience in Aerospace
• Certified in crane or forklift operation

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

Pay

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

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.

Important Information

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.