Senior CNC Machinist

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Compensation

$43.27 USD

Middle River, MD

On-site

Posted January 30, 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.

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 CNC MACHINIST

Based out of Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex facility in Middle River, Maryland. The Senior CNC Machinist will maintain, set up and operate the CNC machines to build flight-ready hardware that meet Rocket Lab specification at the needed rate.

Space Structures Complex is hiring for multiple shift schedules.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Work with composites CNC machine cutting carbon, glass, and wood.
Machine massive components for our Neutron rocket
Read and translate drawings/CAD models
Provide feedback to Engineering to improve instructions
Work with CNC programmer to maintain tolerances and, do basic programming activities
Work to reduce any non-conformances found by quality or engineering.
Provide improvement ideas on batch sizes, setups, tool selection etc.
Track calibration and maintenance of all equipment and tooling in the area.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR CNC MACHINIST:

HS Diploma and 8+ years of experience with CNC operation on lathe and mills
3+ years experience using a 5 Axis CNC

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

CNC programming experience - NX programming
Experience in an Aerospace Manufacturing Environment
Experience running CMS CNC machines (Poseidon, Ares)
Manual Programming (understand and diagnose g-code)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
Able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted
Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls.
Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours min
Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces&nb

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