CNC Programmer

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Auckland, NZ

On-site

Posted March 3, 2026

Job Description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.

CNC PROGRAMMER

Based in Auckland, this is your opportunity to take a leading role in Rocket Lab’s Fabrication and Machining team, shaping the future of space exploration! As a senior expert in manual and CNC machining, you’ll be hands-on in creating precision aerospace components for launch vehicles, Space Systems, and cutting-edge R&D projects. From programming and operating CNC machines to crafting high-tolerance parts, your work will drive prototype development and flight-critical hardware production, all while ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Day-to-day machining of parts according to drawing specifications.
Operate and maintain machinery, tooling and equipment.
Develop, simulate, and execute toolpath NC files using NX CAM.
Design and create holding fixtures as needed.
Perform visual quality checks and measurements using GD&T standards.
Maintain inventory of spares and consumables for efficient reordering

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Trade qualified in relevant industry
8+ years of relevant industry experience
Proven expertise in CNC machining and CAM programming (ideally NX CAM).
Strong knowledge of GD&T and measurement instruments.
Self-sufficient in low-run job-shop machining and precision mechanical assembly.
Comfortable working to exacting standards.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Computer literacy and familiarity with smartphones/tablets

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: