Senior Manufacturing Engineer II - Machining
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.
About the Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer with a focus in Machining based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA. They will be responsible for the machining development of new products and product revisions as related to the Rutherford engine (currently in use on the 2nd most frequently launched US rocket), and the Archimedes engine where they will have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a novel rocket engine build.
Responsibilities
- Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for machining, productivity, quality control, etc.
- Select, procure, and install machine shop equipment along with developing maintenance/calibration plans.
- Develop machining capability in-house for the Archimedes components and implement rapid iterations.
- Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.
- Responsible for continuous improvement and cost reduction projects belonging to the fabrication department.
- Collaborate with other Rocket Lab machine shops for general alignment, capability, and support.
- Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and machinist daily.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or equivalent.
- 8+ years of machine shop experience.
- Experience in CAM software 3 and 5-axis CNC equipment.
- Well versed in GD&T and inspection methods.
- 12+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Preferred Skills
- Working experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma and value stream mapping.
- 10+ 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, AM and welding.
- NX CAM programming and operating 5-axis CNC machining.
Pay & Benefits
- Base Pay Range (CA Only): $120,000 USD - $170,000 USD (level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience).
- Company equity.
- 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, plus 11 paid holidays per year.
- Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts.
- Paid parental leave.
- Disability insurance and life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Discounted employee stock purchase program.
- Subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Work Environment
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.