Senior Operations Manager - Warkworth Composites Complex
Full time
at Rocket Lab USA
in
New Zealand
Posted on May 8, 2024
Job details
Senior Operations Manager - Warkworth Composites Complex
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! Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: This is a role within the Neutron Senior Leadership team that will oversee operations at the WCC (Warkworth Composites Complex) facility, delivering the required production output whilst maintaining quality, schedule and cost control. You can expect to manage the WCC facility, the Neutron Composites team in New Zealand, and local suppliers (NZ and Australia). Performance in this position will be measured by the ability to successfully maintain a high performing team, delivering high-quality parts and assemblies for the Neutron program. WCC has an initial focus on first article development but has a longer-term focus on scaling production to support assemblies of the Neutron launch vehicle include stage 2 tanks, stage 1 fairings, and aerostructures across the entire launch vehicle. Key responsibilities of the role are:- Oversee sitewide operations, production staff, administration and logistics, maintenance and upkeep of all WCC infrastructure and facilities to ensure continued production in a safe, effective environmentÂ
- Lead, mentor, and support the staff within the WCC department to be motivated, effective and efficient in their roles while provide opportunities for growth and developmentÂ
- Ensure direct reports understand their role and responsibilities and receive timely feedback on their performance, both formal and informalÂ
- Implementation of manufacturing and business processes to optimize operationsÂ
- Take ownership/responsibility for WCC facility output and qualityÂ
- Strong knowledge and applied experiences in both and R&D environment and lean manufacturing
- 8 + years' manufacturing experience in aerospace or a closely related industry, such as launch vehicles, aircraft, helicopters, automotive or boat-building
- Demonstrated experience in leading teams in fast paced environments
- Demonstrated experience leading teams through change management initiatives that influence culture, define tools & processes and improve competencies
- Demonstrated experience in composites design and/or manufacturing
- Highly effective and professional verbal and written communication skills with the team, internal customers and suppliers that includes a strong focus on teamwork and internal/external customer satisfaction
- Demonstrated ability to work cross functionally within a geographically disperse and diverse organisation
- Composite manufacturing in prepregs and Infusion
- CNC machining
- Composite curing autoclaves
- Composite material handling and cutting machinery
- General facility and civil construction
- Domestic and global logistics
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