Senior Manufacturing Engineer - RF Avionics

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab's Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - RF (Avionics)

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Sr. RF Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for process development, implementation and sustainment of RF Components and Assemblies used across all programs. You will support the Manufacturing Engineering Manager for Avionics and Space Systems and Production and Design organizations, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.

Design and troubleshoot RF (S-Band, X, C bands) test setups and associated support equipment for production operations

Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions

Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.

Define and implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning

Capital and facilities justification, project management and implementation

Lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations

Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

4 year engineering degree (Preferably Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Mechanical)

5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment

Extensive experience using fundamentals of electronic circuits, design principles, and manufacturing techniques to solve component issues in a fast-paced environment

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Advanced engineering degree (Preferably Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Mechanical)

7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment

Working experience with environmental acceptance/production acceptance testing, such as vibration, shock, thermal, and vacuum

Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors

Experience with LabVIEW, Python, and/or National Instruments hardware

Experience with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area

Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of cross-functional team in a fast-paced, iterative design environment

Demonstrated experience with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies, Fault Tree Analysis, Pareto analysis, root cause and corrective action

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.

Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.

Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: 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, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.
Base Pay Range (CA Only) $100,000-$135,000 USD
WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U. S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U. S. citizen, lawful U. S. permanent resident (i. e. , current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U. S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U. S. Department of State and/or the U. S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applica.