Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Composites

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company providing end-to-end solutions including launch services, spacecraft design, manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components. Its mission is to expand space access through the development and deployment of rockets and satellites that support scientific, environmental, security, and technological missions globally. The company’s Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites. They are also advancing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable vehicle for larger satellite constellations. Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division develops satellites and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, including contribution to the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

The Senior Manufacturing Engineer for Composites will operate across both product development and manufacturing lines to transform composite structures from prototypes into reliable, scalable production. Responsibilities span tooling and process development through problem resolution on manufacturing floors and quality enhancement. The role entails use of systems such as TeamCenter or Infor LN for data and process control, and Siemens NX for integration between design and manufacturing. Key duties include analyzing manufacturing defects, executing root cause analyses, and applying improvements with lasting effect.

Key Responsibilities

• Transition composite products from prototype phase to full production readiness
• Design and develop composite tooling, molds, and related manufacturing processes
• Collaborate with engineering and technical teams to address and solve on-floor production challenges
• Lead investigations into non-conformities and ensure persistent resolution of issues
• Champion continuous improvements in quality, cost-effectiveness, and delivery timelines
• Create clear, effective procedures to standardize repetitive manufacturing processes
• Support the validation, testing, and implementation of product/process enhancements
• Utilize statistical process control, Pareto analysis, and other data-driven methods for performance evaluation and decision-making

Required Qualifications

• Proven practical understanding of manufacturing processes and systems
• Experience with ERP/PLM software such as TeamCenter or Infor LN
• Proficient in CAD design, ideally using Siemens NX
• Background in production or manufacturing environments with quality system knowledge
• Hands-on expertise with structured problem-solving tools like DFMEA, PFMEA, and root cause analysis
• Knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience handling composite materials, tooling, repairs, and assemblies
• Ability to troubleshoot and make decisions rapidly in dynamic settings

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace or other technically demanding industries
• Understanding of advanced composite materials including resins, ablatives, and sandwich structures
• Experience with composite repairs and integration into larger assemblies
• Familiarity with capacity modelling, value stream mapping, or process mapping
• Strong collaboration skills for communication between engineers and technicians

Work Environment & Culture

This position suits a proactive individual who thrives near manufacturing operations, embraces ownership, and consistently pursues process improvements beyond maintenance. Teamwork, humility, resilience under pressure, and a commitment to innovation are core company values.

Important Notices

Employment in US offices: Applicants must comply with U.S. export regulations (ITAR) requiring U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, qualifying refugee or asylum status, or appropriate clearances from U.S. government authorities.

Employment in New Zealand offices: Background and nationality checks will be conducted. Eligibility requires citizenship from specified countries or NATO members and compliance with ITAR restrictions.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer prohibiting discrimination on various protected characteristics. Accommodations for disabilities during hiring processes are available upon request.