About the role
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
NEUTRON
Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. Asa a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a high 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 reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!
SENIOR FACILITIES ENGINEER I
As a Senior Facilities Engineer I, you will be a key driver of Neutron’s production system and facility development, ensuring efficient use of space, and resources while meeting complex manufacturing requirements and future growth needs.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Industrial Engineering Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement production system designs, including factory layouts, work cell designs, and equipment commissioning plans.
- Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, tooling, and layout upgrades to meet production volume requirements, including preparation of business cases.
- Streamline flow of raw materials, finished goods, flight parts, and indirect goods through the factory by working with supply chain and manufacturing engineers.
- Review and support Value Stream Mapping exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, and production workflows.
- Take a “Lean First” approach to production system development and facilitate continuous improvement with key stakeholders.
- Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to BMS.
Facilities Engineering Responsibilities:
- Translate manufacturing, process, and testing requirements into facilities specifications, including electrical, network infrastructure, HVAC, fluids (air, nitrogen, vacuum, water), and other critical systems.
- Plan, justify, and support execution of capital projects for facility upgrades, equipment installations, and layout improvements.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and production teams to align facilities systems with operational goals.
- Apply Lean principles to facilities design and production system development, ensuring efficient use of resources.
- Support equipment selection, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and production commissioning.
- Support EHS to ensure facility is compliant with OSHA, environmental regulations.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering (industrial, manufacturing, mechanical, electrical, aerospace or other technical engineering discipline)
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or facilities engineering environments
- Proven experience designing, implementing, and supporting production systems and facilities infrastructure with demonstrated results
- Proficiency with CAD systems such as NX or SolidWorks
- Experience in the application of Lean Manufacturing tools and methodologies
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Engineering degree (preferably manufacturing, mechanical, electrical, or aerospace)
- 8+ years of experience in manufacturing, industrial engineering, or facilities engineering roles
- Experience transitioning products from design to production in fast-paced, iterative environments
- Knowledge of composites manufacturing processes
- Experience with heavy equipment, large-scale lifting operations, and structural assembly
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
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, and free snacks/drinks onsite.
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 (MD Only)$102,000—$128,000 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 applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected].This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.