Senior CNC Machinist/Programmer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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!

SENIOR CNC MACHINIST/PROGRAMMER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex facility in Middle River, Maryland. The Master CNC Machinist will maintain, set up program and operate the CNC machines to build flight-ready hardware that meet Rocket Lab specification at the needed rate.

Space Structures Complex is hiring for multiple shift schedules.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Work with large CNC machines to produce carbon fiber components for our Neutron rocket.
• Use Mastercam to program safe and efficient toolpaths
• Machine a range of tooling materials to produce large composite molds and tools to support production
• Design and manufacture fixtures and tooling to enable machining of components
• Read and translate drawings/CAD models
• Develop and improve manufacturing processes
• Be responsible for sourcing and testing new tooling solutions to improve productivity
• Provide feedback to Engineering to improve manufacturability
• Work to identify and reduce any non-conformances
• Provide improvement ideas on batch sizes, setups, tool selection etc
• Track calibration and maintenance of all equipment and tooling in the area

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR CNC MACHINIST:

• HS Diploma and 8+ years of CNC Milling experience
• Experience programming and operating a 5 Axis CNC
• Familiar with the use of MasterCAM
• In depth knowledge of GD&T
• Ability to read and interpreting technical drawings
• Strong knowledge of machine workings, maintenance and calibration.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience in an Aerospace Manufacturing Environment
• Experience running CMS CNC machines (Poseidon, Ares) or similar large 5 axis gantry style machines.
• Experience operating machines that have a Fanuc control
• Experience with CAD design preferably NX or Mastercam
• Experience working with composite materials (Carbon fiber/fiberglass)
• Manual Programming (understand and diagnose g-code)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Stand and walk extended periods ( 8+ hours) on production floor
• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

#RL1

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) $45 — $55 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 .

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.