Senior Supplier Quality Engineer I - PCBA
The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer I - PCBA at Rocket Lab's Long Beach, CA headquarters ensures that procured parts, services, and processes meet quality requirements. This role acts as a liaison between internal design and manufacturing teams and external suppliers, translating technical requirements into clear specifications and driving supplier improvements.
Key responsibilities include serving as the technical point of contact for assigned parts and assemblies, resolving emergent supplier quality challenges, and mitigating risks to the production schedule. The engineer will own production components and assemblies end-to-end, drive improvements in manufacturing methods, identify new suppliers, and develop reliable rate-ramp processes. Additionally, the role involves conducting Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews, partnering with procurement to assess suppliers' quality capabilities, authoring and communicating specifications to the supply base, and leading root cause analyses and containment activities for part issues.
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years' experience in a regulated industry such as aerospace, medical, or automotive, and hold a bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Mechatronic Engineering, or a related field. Prior experience in a supplier quality role and proficiency with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and engineering drawing interpretation are required. Preferred qualifications include expertise in PCB/PCBA electronics, familiarity with IPC standards, and experience with quality systems like AS9100.
Rocket Lab offers a comprehensive benefits package, including top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage, 3 weeks of paid vacation, 5 days of sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, an onsite gym, and complimentary food and drinks.
Joining Rocket Lab means becoming part of a mission-driven team dedicated to unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth. The company fosters a culture of hard work, innovation, teamwork, and resilience, offering employees the opportunity to contribute to ambitious and vital space missions.