Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Avionics (Night Shift, 4 day week)
Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Avionics to join our team in Auckland, New Zealand. This role offers a unique opportunity to work hands-on with Electron, our proven satellite launcher, and Neutron, our next-generation medium-lift rocket. As a key member of the avionics team, you will play a pivotal role in transitioning these vehicles from research and development to full-scale production, ensuring they meet the highest standards of reliability and performance.
In this position, you will take ownership of critical projects, optimizing processes for production and testing. Your responsibilities will include solving complex problems across avionics, electrical, mechanical, and software systems, bridging gaps between disciplines to deliver seamless solutions. You will contribute to the transition of Neutron hardware from prototype to production by supporting rigorous testing processes and ensuring all systems meet operational standards. Additionally, you will investigate and resolve non-conformances by collaborating with cross-functional teams, including production, design, and engineering.
The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, along with at least 7 years of experience as a Manufacturing, Production, or Process Engineer. Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems in a manufacturing environment is essential. Proven leadership and coaching experience, strong communication skills with the ability to write clear and concise KPIs, and a flexible, can-do attitude to thrive in a fast-paced environment are also required.
This role offers a 4-day workweek (Monday to Thursday) with a late start schedule, providing long weekends every week. Working hours are from 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM. You will have the 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. Potential opportunities to travel to the US and collaborate with international teams may also be available, bringing back insights to improve local processes.
Rocket Lab fosters a culture of ownership and impact, encouraging team members to take initiative and drive results. As a leader, you will set the standard for excellence and coach others to do the same. Being part of the exciting transition of Neutron and Electron from research and development to production, you will ensure hardware is stable and ready for everyday use, contributing to the future of space exploration.