Rocket Lab

Build Engineer II / Senior Build Engineer I

Rocket Lab • $90K — $110K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering or equivalent technical degree.
  • 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing, integration or assembly environments depending on level.
  • Experience with propulsion systems or complex mechanical assemblies.
  • Proven ability to tackle complex technical problems hands-on in real-time environment.
  • (Optional) Familiarity with Siemens NX or similar CAD/PLM tools.
  • (Optional) Knowledgeable in reading engineering drawings and GD&T standards.
  • (Optional) Proficient in using hand tools and basic inspection equipment.

Responsibilities

  • Own the build process for the Archimedes engine and related hardware.
  • Design and implement process improvements for shop floor efficiency, safety, and quality.
  • Develop and document assembly and integration procedures.
  • Create and manage work orders for accurate engine assembly.
  • Support and guide technicians in resolving build challenges.
  • Coordinate with teams to ensure timely parts availability for engine builds.
  • Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams on hardware improvements.
  • Participate in problem containment and corrective action investigations.

Benefits

  • Innovation-driven culture focused on teamwork and mutual support.
  • Work on cutting-edge propulsion development initiatives.
  • Opportunity to tackle complex engineering challenges.
  • Dynamic, fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Exposure to hands-on technical problem-solving in a critical industry.
Full Job Description
BUILD ENGINEER

As a Build Engineer at our NASA Stennis rocket engine test facility in Mississippi, you will be the technical owner for the build activities of the Archimedes engine at the site. You will work hands-on with hardware, rapidly solving problems as they arise and driving continuous improvement in our build processes to enable a high test cadence across ongoing development, qualification and acceptance testing of Archimedes engines. This is a fast-paced, high-ownership role at the heart of our propulsion development efforts.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
  • Own the build process for the Archimedes engine and related propulsion hardware at the test site.
  • Design and implement improvements to shop floor layout and flow to optimize efficiency, safety, and quality of engine builds, including designing and purchasing of specialty tooling and equipment where needed.
  • Develop, document, and improve procedures for assembly, integration and check-out operations.
  • Create and maintain engine build work orders to ensure accurate and traceable assembly operations.
  • Support technicians performing engine build work, resolving blockers, clarifying build requirements, and providing hands-on guidance as needed.
  • Coordinate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure timely availability of engine parts and materials required for engine builds and rebuilds to support high cadence engine testing.
  • Work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement design changes, resolve non-conformances, and drive hardware improvements.
  • Maintain consistency with production operations at Neutron production sites by aligning build processes and standards wherever possible.
  • Lead and participate in problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.

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

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A BUILD ENGINEER II:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree.
  • 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing, integration or assembly environment.
  • Experience with propulsion systems, complex mechanical assemblies, or shop floor operations.
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex, hands-on technical problems in real time.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR BUILD ENGINEER I:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree.
  • 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing, integration or assembly environment.
  • Experience with propulsion systems, complex mechanical assemblies, or shop floor operations.
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex, hands-on technical problems in real time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
  • Detailed knowledge of Siemens NX or similar CAD and PLM packages.
  • Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T.
  • Detailed knowledge of quality standards for typical assembly and production products.
  • Proficient with all types of hand tools and basic integration, inspection and check-out equipment.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical design, fluid systems, and instrumentation.

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

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:

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a private American aerospace manufacturer and small satellite launch service provider. The company was founded in 2006 by New Zealander Peter Beck. Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is designed to launch small payloads of up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit. The company has launched several successful missions and has contracts with NASA and other organizations. Rocket Lab has raised over $200 million in funding and has offices in the United States and New Zealand.
Learn more about Rocket Lab
Size
500 employees
Market Cap
$1.6 billion
Industry
Founded
2006
NASDAQ

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