Manufacturing Engineer II - Propulsion

Rocket Lab USA - Long Beach, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Long Beach, CA

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The Manufacturing Engineer II - Propulsion at Rocket Lab is responsible for overseeing the introduction and implementation of new products and revisions related to propulsion systems, specifically the Rutherford and Archimedes engines. This role involves supporting the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production with deliverables for internal leadership and stakeholders, ensuring high-quality manufacturing processes and continuous improvement in production efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design reviews as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, and quality control.
• Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises and develop Method of Manufacture plans.
• Implement factory layouts, equipment selection, and production commissioning.
• Develop and document production processes, including testing procedures and health and safety requirements.
• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities and lead problem containment investigations.
• Design and implement tooling and equipment to improve quality and cost performance in production.
• Lead continuous improvement processes using lean tools and techniques such as 5S.
• Introduce automation and ensure equipment data links to MRP and quality systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of fluid and structural mechanics fundamentals.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes for aerospace materials.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced engineering degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes for fluid components.
• Experience with assembly and testing of turbomachinery and combustion devices.
• Experience designing and supporting a production line or build area.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as TIG, EB and laser welding, heat treating, and CNC machining.
• Experience transitioning products from design to production in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with root cause and corrective action projects and PFMEA/DFMEA.

Benefits

• Top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts.
• Paid parental leave.
• Disability insurance and life insurance.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Discounted employee stock purchase program.
• Subsidized EV charging stations.
• Onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.