About this job

Rocket Lab is the global leader in dedicated small satellite launch. Launching from right here in New Zealand, we design and build innovative technology to give small satellites a premium ride to orbit.

Small satellites play a crucial role in our day-to-day lives – they connect us, keep us safe, help us understand our planet and manage our impact on it, and they enable us to innovate and explore. There are endless possibilities for what we can achieve with better access to space, and that access is now a reality thanks to Rocket Lab.

Our relentlessly innovative team is behind Electron, the world’s only truly commercial small satellite launch vehicle in operation today. With multiple orbital launches under our belt and a record of 100% mission success, we’re opening access to space to improve life on Earth. We’ve built a world class team with a reputation for doing the impossible. Collaboration is at our core – every idea is heard, and everyone makes a difference.  Every day, we pursue ideas that challenge, excite and demand more of us, and we make them real. Be a part of it.

Responsibilities

The primary purpose of the Lead Engineer (Manufacturing) is to lead and Improve the effectiveness of the Manufacturing Team at Rocket Lab to introduce new items into Production.

Promote the Manufacturing Excellence mindset by observing processes, identifying gaps vs. best practices,analyzing plant performance, setting the level of ambition, developing improvement solutions and deploying Lean tools. This position will work closely and develop strong relationships with R&D Engineering and test, Engineering Change, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Engineering Team and Production Managers /Supervisors.

Profile

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Mechatronics or Electrical Engineering (or related).
• Experience of developing a new NPI system
• 3+ years’ experience as a Manufacturing Engineer
• Hands-on technical experience with complex electro-mechanical systems/assemblies.
• Strong communicator, with proven ability to write clear and concise technical documentation.
• Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes.

Preferred

• Strong DFM fundamentals
• Strong experience in transitioning prototype builds to production
• Knowledge of Project Management, Production, Interface and ERP software systems such as Wrike, Team Center and ERP/MRP
• Knowledge of production quality metrics
• Hands-on experience with Composites Assemblies