Manufacturing Engineer II - Composites

Manufacturing Engineer II - Composites

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Manufacturing Engineer II, Composites

We are currently seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II, Composites to be based at Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River, MD. The Manufacturing Engineer II, Composites will be responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of composite manufacturing technologies and processes used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout definitions to meet volume requirements including preparation of business cases
• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor sign-offs
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where required to achieve safety, quality, delivery and cost requirements
• Actively contribute to facility construction projects including requirements generation, design reviews and implementation support
• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.
• Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions as related to the Neutron launch vehicle composite structure
• Lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances
• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems
• Identify risks and improvements to develop the manufacturing engineering department to meet company needs
• Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians daily

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree.
• 2 + years of composite manufacturing experience.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Working experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma and value stream mapping.
• Experience with 3D CAD software and tooling design.
• Experience in Automated Fiber Placement technology.
• Experience both Autoclave and Out-of-Autoclave composite manufacturing techniques.
• Experience with Non-Destructive Testing/Inspection of composite components.
• Experience in qualification and acceptance testing of composite structural components.

Additional Requirements:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, and free snacks/drinks onsite.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $90,000 - $115,000 USD

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.