Senior Manufacturing Engineer Avionics

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 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.

AVIONICS

At Rocket Lab we dont just build rockets - we build the future of space exploration. As aSenior Manufacturing Engineer Avionics youll have the rare opportunity to work hands-on with Electron our proven satellite launcher and Neutron our next-generation medium-lift rocket. Youll be at the forefront of transitioning these vehicles from R&D to production ensuring they meet the highest standards of reliability and performance. This role is more than just engineering its about taking ownership solving complex problems and driving innovation in a fast-paced test-heavy production environment.

WHAT YOULL DO:

• Take ownership of critical projects ensuring processes are optimized for production and testing.
• Solve problems across avionics electrical mechanical and software systems bridging gaps between disciplines to deliver seamless solutions.
• Contribute to the transition of Neutron hardware from prototype to production by supporting rigorous testing processes and ensuring all systems meet operational standards.
• Investigate and resolve non-conformances by working with cross-functional teams including production design and engineering.
• Work closely with production teams designers and engineers across avionics electrical mechanical and software disciplines.
• Build strong relationships with technicians and subject matter experts to enable efficient testing and operations.
• Coordinate efforts between mechanical engineers and avionics specialists to address compatibility challenges ensuring all systems integrate flawlessly.
• Develop and implement processes that streamline testing operations ensuring overflow tasks are managed effectively.
• Be deeply involved in day-to-day production and testing ensuring hardware is reliable and ready for launch

WHY ROCKET LAB:

Work on Neutron and Electron:

• A unique chance to work on Electron the second most frequently launched rocket globally and Neutron currently in production and set to redefine space launch capabilities.

Ownership & Impact:

• We need people who take ownership of their work and drive results. As a leader youll set the standard for excellence and coach others to do the same.

Global Collaboration:

• Potential opportunities to travel to the US and collaborate with international teams bringing back insights to improve local processes.

Transition from R&D to Production:

• Be part of the exciting transition of Neutron and Electron from research and development to production ensuring hardware is stable and ready for everyday use.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Computer Mechatronics Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7 years of experience as a Manufacturing/Production/Process Engineer.
• Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership and coaching experience.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to write clear and concise KPIs.
• Flexibility and a can-do attitude to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

DESIRABLE SKILLS:

• Experience with Siemens Team Center / Infor LN.
• Knowledge of production quality metrics.
• Experience transitioning products from prototype to production.
• Compliance-driven manufacturing change implementation.
• PPS problem-solving expertise

Ready to Take Ownership and Lead the Way

If youre passionate about manufacturing problem-solving troubleshooting and driving innovation in aerospace we want to hear from you!

Apply now and be part of a team thats shaping the future of space exploration.

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 out-think out-work and out-pace. 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.