Manufacturing Engineer II - Propulsion

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company delivering launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite components, and more, all aimed at enhancing access to space. Their rockets and satellites support significant global missions, including scientific exploration, Earth monitoring, climate change initiatives, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations. The Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, having deployed over 230 satellites. Additionally, Rocket Lab is developing Neutron, a medium-lift, reusable rocket for larger satellite constellations. Their Space Systems division produces satellites and components for high-profile projects such as NASA lunar and Martian missions and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

The Manufacturing Engineer II position, based at Rocket Lab's Production Complex in Auckland, New Zealand, involves leading process improvements and product updates related to the Rutherford rocket engine. This role supports the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and the Production team by delivering critical reports for internal leadership, board members, and investors.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production processes, including testing procedures, safety guidelines, and supervisor approvals.
• Collaborate with the quality team to address manufacturing quality issues and lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives when needed.
• Design and implement tooling and equipment enhancements to improve quality, delivery, or cost-efficiency in production.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts within the area using lean methodologies such as 5S.
• Integrate automation solutions and ensure equipment connectivity with Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) and quality systems.
• Participate in design reviews, providing expertise on manufacturability, testing, productivity, supplier capability, and quality control.
• Conduct value stream mapping, method of manufacture planning, and cell design exercises.
• Manage factory layout, select equipment, and oversee factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and production commissioning.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of two years' professional engineering experience in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of fluid and structural mechanics principles.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes for aerospace materials.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace engineering, or similar field.
• Over three years’ experience in manufacturing engineering, particularly with fluid components during assembly, testing, or qualification.
• Deep knowledge of fluid component manufacturing processes.
• Experience with assembly and testing of turbomachinery and combustion systems.
• Background in designing, implementing, and supporting production lines or build areas.
• Experience with manufacturing techniques such as TIG, EB, laser welding, heat treatment, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and precision cleaning.
• Proven ability to transition products from design to production within cross-functional, fast-paced settings.
• Expertise in root cause analysis, corrective actions, and PFMEA/DFMEA for manufacturing processes and products.

Additional Requirements

• Vision capabilities including close, distance, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus are essential.
• Physical ability to sit, operate computers, use hands and fingers, and verbally and written communicate effectively.
• Must be capable of commuting to facilities.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.
• Flexibility to work extended hours and weekends as required by test and launch schedules.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab is committed to fostering a culture of innovation, resilience, collaboration, and dedication to challenging ambitions. The company operates under strict export control regulations, including ITAR compliance, affecting candidate eligibility especially for U.S. and New Zealand offices. Background checks and nationality verification are mandatory for roles involving access to regulated equipment and data. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination or harassment in hiring and employment practices.