BUILDING ELECTRON AT ROCKET LAB: 

Electron is the most frequently-launched rocket in the Southern Hemisphere and has reached 50 launches faster than any other company in the world! The team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again. We hustle hard to do the impossible and make beautiful things everyday! 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

The Integration team is made up of technicians with both avionics and mechanical experience, but the team works as one unit, and tasks are not allocated purely on the background of the technician. A versatile skillset is required. As a Technician, you will be hands on, working with tools, equipment and/or facilities to build, launch or test Rocket Lab launch vehicles or components. Your responsibilities contribute to the overall production and launch schedule. 

As a member of the Vehicle Integration team, the Vehicle Integration Technician installs mechanical and/or avionic components, wiring harnesses and high voltage batteries onto the Electron launch vehicle. 

We currently have openings on evening shift Monday to Thursday (15:00 to 01:30). So, you can enjoy a 3-day weekend, every weekend and an additional evening shift allowance. Relocation assistance will be provided if required.  

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS 

• Trade qualified in relevant industry 
• Must be able to demonstrate 2+ years' relevant experience 
• Precision avionic and/or mechanical assembly 
• Comfortable working to exacting standards, including cleanliness for oxygen service 
• Have a good level of eyesight and be able to inspect assemblies to a high workmanship standard 
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Have a sound understanding of standard industry ESD policy 
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written 
• The ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as autonomously 
• Able to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings 
• A high work ethic, always seeking more responsibility. Able to work long hours if required 
• Takes initiative 
• Remains calm under pressure 
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets 

ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology  
• An employee stock purchase program  
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career  
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks  
• Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.  
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross  
• Additional parental leave entitlements  
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year  
• 4 days on, 3 days off shift pattern. 
• Evening shift allowance. 

If the above is aligned and you're considering a new opportunity apply now! - All applications are reviewed and considered. 

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

At Rocket Lab, our Safety & Mission Assurance Team is at the heart of every successful launch. As a Safety & Mission Assurance Engineer I, you’ll play a critical role in supporting our launch safety regulatory compliance—both in documentation and operations—ensuring our missions are safe, compliant, and ready for liftoff.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Project manage mission submissions: Coordinate inputs from teams across Rocket Lab to create accurate regulatory documentation for every launch vehicle mission, delivered on time.
• Flight Safety System (FSS) Mission Submission Management: Review safety-critical component test reports, flag out-of-family components, and manage FSS system summary reports and communications with regulators.
• RL Payload Permitting: Prepare and submit payload permit applications for Rocket Lab payloads.
• Payload Safety Management: Produce Payload Safety Assessments for low-hazard payloads and work with operational teams to manage mission-specific payload hazards.
• Orbital Debris: Ensure new spacecraft programs meet orbital debris reduction requirements.
• Launch Operational Safety Regulatory Support: Train to fulfill the Launch Safety Official role during launch operations, monitoring for regulatory compliance.
• Monitor Regulatory Compliance: Perform internal audits, monitor compliance across business operations, ensure timely annual report submissions, and maintain accuracy in regulatory submissions during change management.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• 2 years of experience in an engineering role with a focus in regulatory compliance, requirements, or safety.
• Knowledge of quality management systems.
• Excellent project management, communication, and technical writing skills.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Knowledge of regulations and standards related to space systems and operations.
• Experience with safety management systems and standards.
• Ability to read and comprehend new standards and regulations.
• Understanding of engineering development and production processes.

If the above sounds like you, apply now!

SUPPLY CHAIN

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together and are critical to our success. 

MANAGER, PURCHASING

Based on site at Rocket Lab's Auckland, NZ Facility, the Purchasing Manager will be responsible for building and managing our direct material procurement team for our New Zealand operations. The procurement team supports direct material purchasing for launch and space systems, from R&D and new product introduction through production ramp.  We are growing fast, and our ideal candidate will have experience in building and leading a high performing team.  This role will report to the Director of Procurement (NZ). This particular role will support all machining commodity purchases for Rocket Lab programs. The scope will cover but not be limited to, aluminum, composites, and our 3D printed materials. 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Manage a highly effective procurement team focused on the raw material commodity (aluminum/composites/printed) for our Launch and Space programs
• Accountable for the procurement of direct materials in support of production material demand and rapid engineering development
• Responsible for developing a global commodity strategy to create best in class cost, quality, and delivery goals in support of Rocket Lab’s growth
• Negotiate pricing on a first principles basis for purchased material cost and create a bottom-up cost model to influence engineering design direction
• Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships.  Conduct supplier performance management including dispute resolution, scorecards, and quarterly business reviews
• Partner with suppliers and internal departments to develop an integrated sourcing and procurement strategy supporting cost optimization, quality improvements, and business growth.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to negotiate and resolve scheduling conflicts, inventory levels, material shortages, delivery requirements, cost improvements, quality improvements, and other material issues.
• Oversee supplier performance, including quality, delivery (OTD), and pricing.
• Function as a key liaison between the Supply Chain team and internal stakeholders including Business unit leadership, Engineering, Accounting, and Manufacturing.
• Ensure ERP procurement and planning data accuracy (ex. safety stock, lead times, ROP, and EOQ) and meta data integrity.
• Conduct comprehensive market research and scouting to uncover new capabilities and potential partnerships that support business unit goals.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 8+ years of experience in purchasing, with management experience in fast-paced environment and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of work experience (12+ years total work experience).
• Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company-wide goals
• Proven ability to source, onboard, and contract pricing agreements with suppliers
• Proven ability to define team strategy and build operating plans to achieve vision and long-term goals
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines.
• Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries
• Prior experience in rapid growth environment
• Experience with AS9100, US export controls (ITAR and EAR)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.  
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise. 

BUILDING ELECTRON AT ROCKET LAB:  

Electron is the most frequently-launched rocket in the Southern Hemisphere and has reached 50 launches faster than any other company in the world! The team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again. We hustle hard to do the impossible and make beautiful things everyday!  

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:  

As an Avionics Technician at Rocket Lab, you will be hands on, working with tools and equipment to build and assemble all electronic components of the Electron launch vehicle. This can include HV Battery assembly, crimping and constructing wire harnesses, and/or precision soldering of PCBs and avionics components. We currently have positions available across all these teams!  

Essential skills  

• Trade qualified in relevant industry and/or able to demonstrate 2+ years of relevant industry experience  
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Have a good level of eyesight and be able to inspect PCBs and/or wiring assemblies to a high workmanship standard  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

Desired Skills  

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written  
• The ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as autonomously  
• Able to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings  
• A high work ethic, always seeking more responsibility. Able to work long hours if required  
• Takes initiative  
• Remains calm under pressure  
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets  

Rocket Lab Employee Benefits  

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology  
• An employee stock purchase program  
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career  
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks  
• Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.  
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross  
• Additional parental leave entitlements  
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year

If the above is aligned and you're considering a new opportunity apply now! - All applications are reviewed and considered.  

NEUTRON
Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

SENIOR AERODYNAMICS ENGINEER

Rocket Lab’s integrated analysis team contributes to the operation and development of Neutron by using modelling and simulation to solve challenging problems involving dynamics, fluid flow, and thermodynamics. Whether it is using CFD simulations, writing code to model flow physics, or applying data analysis on flight measurements to develop vehicle performance, analysis is critical to guide changes and develop the capability of Neutron. As a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer in Rocket Lab’s Thermofluids Analysis team you will contribute to the analysis, design validation, and improvements of Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles. 

Day to day, you will be expected to lead concept development, perform trade studies, run simulations, and evaluate performance around Neutron’s aerodynamics, heating, plume interaction and compartment venting. You will be responsible for evaluating aerodynamic control, flow feature characterisation, and representing these by generating aero-table databases. 

Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Perform, validate, and document multi-physics analyses of launch vehicle aerodynamics and provide support for development projects, including: 
  • Identify and leading the implementation of changes to vehicle aerodynamic design and characterisation
  • Performing trade-off studies 
  • System design and optimization 
• Aerodynamic performance and flight dynamics across ascent, re-entry, descent glide and landing 
• Aerodynamic control, operation envelopes and unsteady flow features 
• Represent aerodynamic characteristics through aero tables and models 
• Own aerodynamic loads and environments 
• Own Compartment venting design and environments 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• A degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering or similar field 
• 5+ years industry experience, ideally from the Aerospace, Automotive or Marine industries  with an aerodynamic or fluid dynamics focus
• Excellent understanding of physical principles surrounding aerodynamics, heat transfer, dynamics, internal flow etc.) 
• Demonstrated experience with one or more industry standard CFD packages: Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, etc. 
• Experience in Python and associated scientific packages: numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib 
• The ability to work to deadlines within a high-pressure environment  
• Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues and engineering professionals  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Aerodynamic experience around Controllability, performance and flight dynamics 
• Generating aerodynamic databases for control and guidance from combination of high and low fidelity sources 
• Experience with mechanical systems in a relevant field (e.g. aerospace, automotive, marine)  
• Experience in python for mathematical modelling, analysis tool development and data handling (numpy, scipy, pandas, git, package deployment, continuous integration) 
• Experience with experimental test methods, sensor selection and Thermal protection system design, specification and implementation. 
• Experience with one or more industry standard thermal modelling packages: Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, NX SST 
• Familiarity using Siemens CAD and PDM packages (or comparable industry standard packages) with emphasis on model interrogation and defeaturing for subsequent analyses 
• Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD-1540, GSFC-STD-7000, ECSS-E-HB-32, NASA-STD-5001)  

If you meet some or all of the above requirements apply now, all applications are reviewed and considered.

BUILDING ELECTRON AT ROCKET LAB:
Rocket Lab's Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world's most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others' back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
The Mechanical Production team work closely with test engineers and design engineers to achieve the highest product quality and safety standards for Rocket Lab launch vehicles. Mechanical assembly technicians receive components from supply chain and complete the assembly and testing of those components before passing on to the Integration team.

As a Technician, you will be hands on, working with tools, equipment and/or facilities to build, launch or test Rocket Lab launch vehicles or components. Your responsibilities contribute to the overall production and launch schedule.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Trade qualified in relevant industry or must be able to demonstrate 4+ years of relevant industry experience
• Precision mechanical assembly
• Operation of mechanical, electrical and automated test equipment
• Comfortable working to exacting standards, including cleanliness for oxygen service
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD
• Have a good level of eyesight and be able to inspect assemblies to a high workmanship standard
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including riveting and precision assembly

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• The ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as autonomously
• Able to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings
• A high work ethic, always seeking more responsibility. Able to work long hours if required
• Takes initiative
• Remains calm under pressure
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets

We have openings on both our Day (Mon - Fri 06:00 - 14:30) and Evening (Mon - Thurs 15:00 - 01:30)  shift patterns.

If the above sounds like you apply now!

SUPPLY CHAIN
Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is the backbone of our operations, ensuring the seamless flow of critical components and orders to internal and external customers on a just-in-time basis. With many of our products functioning as essential parts for both our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team plays a pivotal role in enabling efficient and effective production outcomes.

INVENTORY COORDINATOR II

By championing Delivery in Full, On Time (DIFOT) and maintaining high customer service levels, the team ensures that every part is where it needs to be, when it needs to be there. This requires precision, collaboration, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment where every detail matters.

This role will be based onsite at our Auckland Production Complex and the hours are Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 5.00pm.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• As an Inventory Coordinator, you’ll contribute to the smooth flow of components and orders, supporting Rocket Lab’s production and operations teams. You’ll assist with inwards goods processes, ensuring items are received and processed efficiently on a FIFO basis, and help maintain stock accuracy through regular cycle counts and investigations into discrepancies.
• In this role, you’ll play a key part in delivering production kits and components on time, supporting daily and weekly production targets while adapting to changing priorities as needed. You’ll also help supply Kanban materials to the shop floor to sustain production and assist with replenishing raw materials to meet inventory needs.
• Your day-to-day will involve picking, packing, and dispatching items securely and efficiently, maintaining a tidy and organized warehouse in line with 5S principles, and collaborating with other teams to relieve bottlenecks and support operations. You’ll also provide excellent customer service for walk-up inquiries, ensuring professionalism and a strong focus on service.
• This role offers variety, teamwork, and the opportunity to contribute directly to Rocket Lab’s mission of delivering world-class space solutions.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a similar position within a manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of ERP systems, with the ability to quickly master Rocket Lab’s ERP system.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work productively without direct supervision, demonstrating a methodical and systematic approach.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships in a demanding, customer-focused environment.
• Experience working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines, with flexibility to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities.
• Reliable and willing to work extra hours when required.
• Strong team player with a proactive attitude and a commitment to delivering results.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 2+ years of experience in a stores environment, including handling both inwards and outwards goods.
• Hands-on experience in stock management and quality control processes.
• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing, automotive, or aviation industries.

Play your part in our next mission today!
Submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you’re excited to join Rocket Lab and how your skills align with this role.

BUILDING ELECTRON AT ROCKET LAB:

Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world’s most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

As a member of the Vehicle Integration team, the Avionic Integration Technician installs avionic and mechanical components, wiring harnesses and high voltage batteries onto the Electron launch vehicle. 

The Integration team is made up of technicians with both avionics and mechanical experience, but the team works as one unit, and tasks are not allocated purely on the background of the technician. A versatile skillset is required.

As a Technician, you will be hands on, working with tools, equipment and/or facilities to build, launch or test Rocket Lab launch vehicles or components. Your responsibilities contribute to the overall production and launch schedule.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Trade qualified in relevant industry
• Must be able to demonstrate 4+ years of relevant industry experience
• Precision avionic and mechanical assembly
• Comfortable with high precision crimping, soldering and harness termination tasks
• Comfortable working to exacting standards, including cleanliness for oxygen service
• Have a sound understanding of standard industry ESD
• Have a good level of eyesight and be able to inspect assemblies to a high workmanship standard
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• The ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as autonomously
• Able to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings
• A high work ethic, always seeking more responsibility. Able to work long hours if required
• Takes initiative 
• Remains calm under pressure
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets

If the above is aligned and you're considering a new opportunity apply now! - All applications are reviewed and considered.

MANUFACTURING

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.

CNC PROGRAMMER

Based in Auckland, this is your opportunity to take a leading role in Rocket Lab’s Fabrication and Machining team, shaping the future of space exploration! As a senior expert in manual and CNC machining, you’ll be hands-on in creating precision aerospace components for launch vehicles, Space Systems, and cutting-edge R&D projects. From programming and operating CNC machines to crafting high-tolerance parts, your work will drive prototype development and flight-critical hardware production, all while ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Day-to-day machining of parts according to drawing specifications.
• Operate and maintain machinery, tooling and equipment.
• Develop, simulate, and execute toolpath NC files using NX CAM.
• Design and create holding fixtures as needed.
• Perform visual quality checks and measurements using GD&T standards.
• Maintain inventory of spares and consumables for efficient reordering

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Trade qualified in relevant industry
• 8+ years of relevant industry experience
• Proven expertise in CNC machining and CAM programming (ideally NX CAM).
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and measurement instruments.
• Self-sufficient in low-run job-shop machining and precision mechanical assembly.
• Comfortable working to exacting standards.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Computer literacy and familiarity with smartphones/tablets

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 5-axis machining experience.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and autonomously.
• High work ethic, initiative, and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Rocket Lab is seeking an exceptional Manager for Test and Launch Operations, someone who thrives when the countdown hits zero and the world is watching. You'll lead front-line engineering teams executing critical test and launch operations for Electron and Neutron, playing a pivotal role in maintaining Rocket Lab's industry-leading launch cadence.

From building high-performing teams to developing operational frameworks, you'll be the driving force that makes complex missions look seamless.

We're looking for an experienced leader who thrives in fast-paced, high-stakes environments, someone who can balance rigorous safety standards with the agility needed to maintain our competitive edge. You'll navigate regulatory requirements, drive continuous improvement, and set the tempo for an industry watching our every move.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
• 8+ years of hands-on aerospace engineering, testing, and/or operations experience
• 3+ years leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams in fast-paced, time-critical environments
• Multi-disciplinary hands-on engineering expertise spanning fluid mechanics, electrical/power systems, automation, instrumentation/control, and software integration
• Proven experience in propulsion systems, test engineering, and ground test operations
• Strong understanding of launch vehicle and spacecraft systems, with exposure to mission operations
• Proven ability to make time-critical decisions and effectively troubleshoot anomalies in high-stakes environments
• Track record of motivating and developing engineering talent in demanding operational environments

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Real-world rocket launch operations experience
• Background working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities
• Working knowledge of FAA, RCC, NASA, and USAF compliance requirements

You don't go to Mars working eight to five, Monday to Friday. If you're a high performer hungry for work with genuine impact, where your engineering excellence directly shapes space exploration, national security, and critical infrastructure, you've found your place. We take delivery incredibly seriously. Failure is not in our DNA. The work is hard, demanding, and not for the faint-hearted.

In return, you'll solve problems that actually matter alongside experts who run toward challenges, not away from them.

If this resonates with you apply today!

SUPPLY CHAIN 

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together, and are critical to our success.  

LEAD SUPPLIER QUALITY ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Auckland, New Zealand facility, the Lead Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that the quality requirements for procured parts and processes are consistently met. Leading a team of highly capable Supplier Quality Engineers, you will act as a key liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers, translating complex technical requirements into clear, achievable specifications. Your exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills will inspire suppliers to continuously improve, implement robust quality processes, and drive cost reduction and process efficiency, all while balancing the priorities of internal teams and external partners. This role also involves overseeing the creation of non-conformance reports, conducting supplier audits, managing supplier concessions, and identifying opportunities for improvement to reduce risk, cost, and lead time for Rocket Lab.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams by fostering collaboration, driving accountability, and empowering team members to achieve exceptional results in dynamic and challenging environments.
• Develop and implement robust supplier quality systems and processes to ensure consistent delivery of quality components and services.
• Utilize tools and metrics to monitor supplier performance, providing visibility into quality trends and driving accountability.
• Lead initiatives to improve purchased product quality, reduce non-conformances, and enhance supplier processes through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Support suppliers in scaling production processes to meet future quality, cost, and delivery targets while introducing new products into production (NPI, APQP, PPAP).
• Act as a bridge between suppliers, internal teams, and senior management to ensure alignment on technical requirements, production goals, and quality standards.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A LEAD SUPPLIER QUALITY ENGINEER:

• 5+ years in a quality role, preferably in regulated industries such as Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, or Industrial.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Mechatronic Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of quality systems, engineering drawings, GD&T, and specialized manufacturing processes like fabrication, CNC, PCBAs, and 3D printing.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, etc.) and practical problem-solving methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead projects, manage supplier relationships, and drive quality improvements across the supply chain.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Ability to work extended hours, some nights or weekends when needed
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise  

ABOUT MANUFACTURING AT ROCKET LAB:

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

As a CNC Operator at Rocket Lab you will play a crucial role in the production of highly complex components that are destined for space. You will work in a clean, environment alongside other skilled professionals, using modern CNC equipment. Your attention to detail, technical expertise, and commitment to quality will contribute to our overall manufacturing success.

Our machining facility operates the following repeating fortnightly pattern:

• Week 1: Four days on, three days off. 1pm – 1am
• Week 2: Three days on, four days off. 1pm – 1am

Key aspects of the role include:

• All aspects of machine setting including fixture set up and alignment, setting work coordinate systems, tool setting, loading and measurement
• Proving safety and accuracy of programs through simulation, dry runs and checking code prior to running
• In process part inspection and measurement 
• Support Research and Development tasks as required

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Fanuc and/or Siemens controls
• Proven experience as a CNC Operator, preferably with Composite Machining experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Proficiency in using precision measuring tools
• High level of workmanship
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot machine issues
• Time management and organisational abilities
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift moderately heavy materials
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other team members
• Communicate clearly and professionally

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Manual turning and milling experience would be an advantage
• Takes initiative and remains calm under pressure
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets
• Experience (or interest) in working in a fabrication/machining environment
• Previous experience in aviation, motorsports or defense

If you're considering a new challenge apply now! All applications are reviewed and considered.