Manufacturing Engineer I - Composites

ABOUT ROCKET LABRocket 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 rockethas 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.At Rocket Lab, we're not just building rockets - we're redefining space exploration and making it accessible to the world.

As a Manufacturing Engineer I – Composites, you'll be at the forefront of innovation, playing a key role in the production of our launch vehicles in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

If you're passionate about engineering, problem-solving, and contributing to groundbreaking space technology, this is your chance to make an impact and be part of something extraordinary.YOUR MISSION : As a Manufacturing Engineer I – Composites, you'll collaborate with engineers, technicians, and subject matter experts to optimize processes, tools, and equipment for composite manufacturing.

You'll tackle challenges head-on, support production activities, and contribute to the successful build and testing of our launch vehicles.

This role is tailor-made for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, embraces innovation, and is eager to grow their engineering expertise.WHAT YOU'LL DO : Process Optimisation : Develop and refine manufacturing processes, tools, and equipment to maximise efficiency and quality.Problem Solving : Review and process non-conformance documents, delivering creative solutions to engineering challenges.Prototyping & Testing : Assist with prototyping, testing, and validating process changes to ensure seamless implementation.Continuous Improvement : Drive improvement projects, conduct risk assessments, and contribute to 5S initiatives.Collaboration : Build strong relationships across departments to enable smooth production and testing workflows.WHAT YOU'LL BRING : Engineering Expertise : Ability to navigate challenges and provide innovative solutions.Documentation Skills : Capable of creating and reviewing technical documents with guidance.Project Management : Skilled in establishing timelines and executing actions for long-term projects.Risk Awareness : Identifies risks and escalates them appropriately.Ownership : Takes responsibility for tasks and delivers results on time.Positive Attitude : Approachable, proactive, and always ready to lend a hand.Communication : Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a willingness to learn and grow.If you're ready to take ownership of exciting projects, solve complex engineering challenges, and help make space accessible to the world, we want to hear from you!

WHAT TO EXPECTWe'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 than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.Important information : FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY : To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and / or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Learn more about ITAR.Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application / interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at

This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply / interview.

Only messages left for this purpose will be considered.

A response to your request may take up to two business days.FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY : For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.

These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States\' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.

For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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