Manufacturing Engineer II - Space Systems

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company providing end-to-end solutions including launch services, spacecraft design and production, payload development, and satellite components. Their missions enable vital global objectives such as scientific exploration, Earth monitoring, climate change initiatives, national security, and innovative technology trials. Their Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites, and they are developing the Neutron medium-lift reusable rocket for larger satellite constellations. Rocket Lab's Space Systems segment designs and manufactures a diverse range of satellites and components used in high-profile missions, including NASA’s Moon and Mars projects and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

The Manufacturing Engineer II in Space Systems will be instrumental in advancing manufacturing methods for Rocket Lab's launch vehicles and spacecraft. This role entails close collaboration with engineering teams and production staff to establish superior manufacturing processes and meet production objectives. Responsibilities include designing tooling, resolving manufacturing issues, executing root cause analyses, leading process improvements, and supporting new product introductions with process development and validation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, enhance, and document manufacturing processes and workflows.
• Design and deploy production tooling and fixtures.
• Investigate and resolve manufacturing halts and non-compliance issues.
• Lead root cause analyses followed by corrective action implementation.
• Support new product introduction by developing and integrating manufacturing processes.
• Work cross-functionally to achieve production targets.
• Create and upkeep precise technical documentation.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts aligned with departmental KPIs.
• Assist in the manufacturing of existing and future Rocket Lab vehicles.
• Apply best practices such as Lean and Six Sigma to optimize production and testing operations.
• Develop Failure Mode and Effect Analyses (FMEAs) and mitigation plans for current processes.
• Design robust processes and identify equipment/tooling needs through RFQs.
• Incorporate automation where feasible to improve efficiency.
• Ensure projects are delivered correctly the first time, managing milestones and risk communication.
• Promote lessons learned and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
• Attain subject matter expertise on PLM and ERP systems, including Team Center, Infor LN, and Flame.
• Provide onsite production and testing assistance, including Design for Manufacturing (DFM) approvals and feedback.
• Train production personnel on established and upcoming manufacturing methods.
• Adhere strictly to health and safety guidelines at all times.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, or Mechatronics Engineering or a related discipline.
• Over three years’ experience working as a Manufacturing, Production, or Process Engineer.
• Hands-on experience diagnosing and resolving issues in complex electro-mechanical manufacturing systems.
• Effective communication skills with a track record of delivering clear key performance indicators.
• Proactive and adaptable in a dynamic and rapidly evolving environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting capabilities.
• Experience managing significant capital expenditure (CapEx) projects.

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with Siemens Team Center and/or Infor LN systems.
• Knowledge of manufacturing quality metrics.
• Experience managing transitions from prototype phase to production scale.

Desired Attributes

• Adept at applying technical knowledge to offer engineering solutions.
• Experience with avionics and electrical systems, including measurement of currents and voltages.
• Basic proficiency in software development.
• Capability to create, assess, and approve technical documentation.
• Skilled in project management including planning and delivery timeline adherence.
• Strong decision-making based on risk analysis and ownership of allocated tasks.
• Applied solutions that enhance cost, quality, reliability, and delivery.
• Self-motivated with strategic planning and prioritization skills.
• Positive and professional with a cooperative approach, prioritizing team support.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Willingness to assist other teams and projects as required.
• Commitment to workplace health and safety standards.

Additional Information

• Travel both domestically and internationally may be necessary.
• Other reasonable duties may be assigned as needed.
• Compliance with company policies and procedures is mandatory.

Diversity and Inclusion

Rocket Lab values a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications even if the candidate’s experience doesn't perfectly fit the criteria. They focus on teamwork, resilience, and innovation in a high-pressure setting.

Important Considerations

Applicants intending to work in the United States must meet specific citizenship or authorization requirements under U.S. export and ITAR regulations. For New Zealand positions, background and nationality checks will determine eligibility to access ITAR-controlled equipment and data – citizens of select countries including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, and NATO member states are eligible; others might be excluded.