Senior Manufacturing Engineer I- Composites

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. NEUTRON Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I, COMPOSITES We are currently seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to be based at Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River, MD. The Senior Manufacturing Engineer, 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 the 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. • 5 + 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 Requirement: • This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. • Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods • Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed • Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision • Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed • Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas. Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance. Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), 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, access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and free snacks/drinks onsite. 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. Total Compensation (base and equity) $129,075—$171,675 USD Base Salary $108,800—$149,600 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