Materials and Process Engineer II/Senior

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018 becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad an advanced 13tonne payload class reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope NASA Psyche Mission Artemis I Mars Ingenuity helicopter and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

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 costeffective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Labs proven execution history with the Electron program. If youre interested in joining a high performing team pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of reusable liquid launch vehicle this is your opportunity!

MATERIALS AND PROCESS ENGINEER II / SENIOR

Based out of Rocket Labs headquarters in Long Beach CA the Materials and Process Engineer will analyze research and develop materials and surface treatments with their related fabrication and application processes to develop and optimize materials for use in engineering of structures systems and subsystems on a major production program.

This role will support processes involved with the Neutron vehicle and Archimedes engines. You will support the Production team with deliverables required for internal leadership board of directors and investors.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Apply principles of chemistry physics and material behavior to develop mostly metallic material processing specifications fabrication and assembly processes.
• Develop analyze and apply material properties and allowables processes and quality engineering specifications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex material and processing challenges across the Neutron Program.
• Support material selection for engine design requirements.
• Assist in development and release of engineering drawings and documents
• Engage in expeditious component failure analyses and evaluations to prevent production line stoppage.
• Material analyses including failure analysis of components systems and subsystems life predictions as well as definition and requirement specifications.
• Review and approve subcontractor material processing procedures.
• Develop qualification plans for material and processes to demonstrate compliance to design requirements.
• Perform and support metallographic and mechanical testing for material characterization.
• Perform root cause investigations using fractography metallography and testing.
• Provide technical documentation and input to support peer and customer reviews.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MATERIALS AND PROCESS ENGINEER II:

• Bachelors degree in engineering (Materials Aerospace Manufacturing or similar).
• 2 years of experience in a materials engineering or materials process engineering role with an emphasis in metal additive manufacturing.
• Experience in a metallurgical laboratory within an aerospace or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with material requirements for aerospace applications.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MATERIALS AND PROCESS ENGINEER:

• Bachelors degree in engineering (Materials Aerospace Manufacturing or similar).
• 5 years of experience in a materials engineering or materials process engineering role with an emphasis in metal additive manufacturing.
• Experience in a metallurgical laboratory within an aerospace or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with material requirements for aerospace applications.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Masters degree in engineering (Materials Aerospace Manufacturing or similar)
• Industry experience with welding and heattreating processes.
• Experience with performing failure analysis for design hardware.

• Understanding of mechanical testing methods for composites.
• Knowledge of aerospace metals including nickelbased alloys and titanium alloys.
• Familiarity with components and subassemblies
• Familiarity with evaluating and developing material and specifications
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting blueprints machine drawings 2D drawings CAD drawings and material callouts and/or material processing note
• Familiarity and a strong background in material manufacturing processes material testing
  processes and procedures and material specifications based on needs
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills for generating M&P support documentation material plans material and process reports and potential proposals are necessary
• Strong technical skills in a fastpaced environment.
• Ability to travel and be willing to work offsight as needed for assignments.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 outthink outwork and outpace. We pride ourselves on having each others 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 the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (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 here.

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 hereITAR Regulations.