Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Mechanical Assembly

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Mechanical Assembly

Rocket 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! SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER - MECHANICAL ASSEMBLY In this role your primary mission is to enhance and optimise Production and Launch vehicle system tests in a dynamic, fast-growing environment, ensuring strict adherence to Manufacturing Principles to meet critical launch deadlines. This role requires forging strong relationships and working collaboratively with Engineers, Technicians, and subject matter experts across various departments to support the seamless testing and operation of launch vehicles. Key responsibilities include mentoring junior team members on industry best practices, innovating and refining Production processes, and driving the implementation of new techniques through prototyping, testing, and integration. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Process Optimisation:

• Lead the production processes for existing and future RL vehicles.
• Develop and optimise production and test operations.
• Create FMEA's and action plans.
• Identify and mitigate risks within current processes.
• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on manufacturing best practices.
• Design flawless operational processes.
• Create RFQs (Request for Quotes) for equipment and tooling needs.
• Mentor others on manufacturing best practices, including Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Perform root cause analysis of complex problems using the PPS process.

Project Management:

• Lead and ensure right-first-time project implementations.
• Communicate major milestones and any potential risks.
• Coordinate resources required for successful project implementation.
• Initiate and support continuous improvement projects.
• Guide junior team members on project delivery.
• Set the standard for all technical documentation.

Production Support:

• Provide onsite support for production and testing.
• Review and approve design for manufacturability (DFM) and provide feedback.
• Train production staff on current and future manufacturing processes.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering or related
• 7+ years’ experience as a Manufacturing / Production / Process Engineer
• Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems within a Manufacturing environment
• Strong communicator, with proven ability to write clear and concise KPI’s
• Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes
• Previous experience in implementation of Major Cap ex project delivery

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with Siemens Team Center / Infor LN
• Knowledge of production quality metrics
• Experience transitioning products from prototype to production

Join us in shaping the future of space exploration! 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. 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. 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. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days. 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. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. #J-18808-Ljbffr