About the role

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.

Rocket Lab is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Vehicle Integration to play a critical role in enabling the production, testing, and launch of our vehicles in a fast-growing, high-performance manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you’ll own manufacturing processes end-to-end, lead complex problem solving, and help set the standard for manufacturing excellence across our production and test operations.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Are you ready to tackle challenges, navigate unknowns, and make a real impact in aerospace? Our team supports day-to-day production line issues, drives efficiency projects, reduces waste, and manages new product introductions - from testing to production.

We oversee integration, final assembly, and testing processes, ensuring seamless workflows and sign-offs. From LC1 to LC2, we manage final builds and thrive on versatility. We’re looking for individuals with a broad skill set - electrical, mechanical, and software expertise who can adapt quickly, solve problems, and embrace challenges. While our team is mechanically strong, we’d love to see more electrical expertise.

If you’re passionate about aerospace, thrive in chaos, and love learning fast, this is the role for you!

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

Manufacturing & Process Excellence

Lead production for current and future Rocket Lab vehicles, developing and optimizing robust, fault-free manufacturing and test processes.
Implement manufacturing best practices (Lean, Six Sigma), own FMEAs, and drive risk mitigation strategies and action plans.
Manage RFQs for equipment and tooling to support efficient production operations.

Project Delivery & Continuous Improvement

Lead right-first-time project implementations, including major CAPEX and process improvement initiatives.
Coordinate resources, manage risks, and communicate milestones while driving continuous improvement efforts.
Coach junior engineers on project execution and delivery.

Technical Leadership & Documentation

Set and steer technical documentation standards and strategies across the business.
Lead root cause analysis using PPS methodologies and facilitate cross-functional problem-solving teams.
Capture lessons learned, ensure follow-up actions, and drive future documentation improvements.

Production Systems & Support

Act as SME for production systems (Siemens Teamcenter, Infor LN ERP, internal floor management systems).
Provide onsite production and test support, approve DFM feedback, and train staff on new processes.

Health, Safety & Professional Standards

Skills & Tags

go aws ai data product design

Aplyr's read

Rocket Lab is a dynamic force in aerospace, attracting engineers and innovators passionate about revolutionizing small satellite launches with cost-effective solutions.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•Rocket Lab offers significant impact opportunities in the small satellite market.
•The company is known for its cost-effective and reliable launch services.
•It provides a platform for engineers to innovate in aerospace technology.

What to watch

•The competitive aerospace industry poses constant innovation challenges.
•Reliance on small satellite market growth may limit diversification.
•High technical demands require specialized skills, potentially limiting applicant pool.

Why Rocket Lab

•Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is tailored for small payloads, differentiating it from larger competitors.
•The company has a proven track record with frequent successful launches.
•Its focus on cost efficiency sets it apart in the aerospace sector.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

rocketlab.com

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Rocket Lab is a private aerospace manufacturer and small satellite launch service provider. They focus on providing cost-effective and reliable access to space for small payloads, significantly impacting the growing small satellite market.