Manufacturing Engineer II / Senior I - Fluids

Rocketlab · Long Beach, CA · Engineering

Posted 2026-08-26

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NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II / SENIOR I - FLUID SYSTEMS

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Manufacturing Engineer - Fluid Systems will develop, implement, and continuously improve the propulsion component, assembly, and integration manufacturing process through strong working knowledge of additive manufacturing, machining, welding, assembly, integration, tooling, test, and quality techniques.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Develop, perform, and qualify precision welding and fabrication of tubing components according to aerospace specifications.

Utilize TIG, MIG, OTW and other welding methods to achieve the required structural integrity.

Conduct thorough inspections of welded components, employing NDE/NDT methods to identify and rectify defects.

Collaborate with engineering teams to interpret and implement design specifications.

When required, lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations

Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances

Collaborate with the quality team to identify and drive quality-related initiatives and improvements

Liaison between production, quality, supply chain and design engineering staff for complex problem solving and process changes

Identify, plan and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet production requirements, including preparation of business cases

Lead the continuous improvement process via Lean/Six Sigma tools and techniques

Develop, introduce, and maintain new planning, production, quality, ERP, data collection and analysis, and other processes where none exist

(This position can be hired as a Manufacturing Engineer II or Senior Manufacturing Engineer Level)

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II - FLUID SYSTEMS:

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline

2+ years of experience developing and introducing fabrication methods such as OTW, TIG, proof testing and cleaning

Experience setting up and/or operating a tube shop or build area

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I – FLUID SYSTEMS:

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline

5+ years of experience developing and introducing fabrication methods such as OTW, TIG, proof testing and cleaning

Experience setting up and operating a tube shop or build area

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

8+ years of experience developing and introducing fabrication methods such as OTW, TIG, proof testing and cleaning

Ability to create and deliver accurate and concise presentations for design, manufacturing, and quality

Strong knowledge of metal working and fabrication processes

Experience designing tooling in an aerospace manufacturing environment

Hands-on with a passion for continuous improvement and building the best hardware

Capable of solving complex problems with little to no supervision in a timely manner

Adaptable and comfortable in an exciting, dynamic and ever-evolving environment

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

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 Pay Range (CA Only)

$100,000—$165,000 USD

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