Lead Composites Manufacturing Engineer
Rocket Lab is seeking a Lead Composites Manufacturing Engineer to join our Composites Manufacturing team at the Space Structures Complex in Middle River, MD. This role focuses on developing, implementing, and continuously improving composite manufacturing processes for the Neutron Launch Vehicle, a medium-lift, reusable launch platform designed for mega constellation deployments and human spaceflight.
The Lead Engineer will coordinate a team responsible for introducing and implementing new products and revisions related to the Neutron launch vehicle's composite structure. Key responsibilities include ensuring product quality, designing robust processes such as bonding, alignment, and lamination, consulting with design engineers on manufacturability, translating designs into manufacturing methods, leading root-cause analyses, resolving manufacturing discrepancies, managing facility-wide constraints, developing technician training plans, overseeing capital projects for production scaling, and contributing to design reviews.
In a leadership capacity, the Lead Engineer will develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians, ensure robust project planning and scheduling, manage performance for team engineers, and recruit additional engineers as needed.
Candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing, or a similar engineering discipline, along with over five years of composite manufacturing experience, preferably with carbon fiber. Experience in a leadership role, either personnel or technical, is also required. Preferred qualifications include experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, 3D CAD software and tooling design, large structural assemblies, and a track record of working with large and diverse workforces.
Rocket Lab offers a competitive base salary ranging from $115,000 to $160,000, determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a comprehensive benefits package, including top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include a discounted employee stock purchase program and free onsite snacks and drinks.
At Rocket Lab, we are committed to unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth. Our team thrives under pressure, works to tight deadlines, and focuses on delivering results. We value teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Joining Rocket Lab means being part of a pioneering team dedicated to redefining space exploration.