---
title: 'Manufacturing Engineer at Rocket Lab Corporation'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/manufacturing-engineer-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-q1bpbv209rag'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-09-09'
---

# Manufacturing Engineer at Rocket Lab Corporation

- **Company:** Rocket Lab Corporation
- **Location:** Auckland, New Zealand
- **Posted:** 2026-08-05
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-09
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab/jobs/7825132003

## Job description

## 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.

Manufacturing Engineering powers Rocket Lab's factories from concept to full-scale production. We're seeking Manufacturing Engineers across multiple disciplines to turn early ideas into manufacturable designs, build and optimize the systems that make them real, and constantly push for faster, better, smarter ways to build rockets.

## THE OPPORTUNITIES:

We're hiring across four key manufacturing disciplines:

- Assembly & Integration – Mechanical, Assembly, Propulsion, Mechanical Test
- Avionics & Test – Electronics manufacturing, electrical test, debugging systems
- Composites – Advanced materials, resins, ablatives, sandwich structures
- Machining – CNC programming, precision manufacturing, GD&T

In your application, please indicate which discipline(s) align with your experience and interests.

## YOU'LL GET TO:

- Own & Ship:
- Become the expert on products you help build and launch
- Help teams hit production goals while maintaining quality
- Improve existing products and support new designs
- Solve & Fix:
- Investigate why things fail and implement fixes
- Make calls on whether parts meet flight standards using engineering analysis
- Connect production, quality, and design teams to solve problems fast
- Build & Improve:
- Write clear procedures so production runs smoothly every time
- Design reliable hardware and test setups
- Create test methods for critical systems
- Use Lean/Six Sigma to make things better and faster
- Lead & Scale:
- Review designs to make sure they're easy to build and test
- Help launch new products to the factory floor
- Identify equipment needs and build the business case
- Set up better systems for planning, quality tracking, and data
- Grow & Deliver:
- Mentor technicians and newer engineers
- Break big projects into manageable pieces and ship them
- Run your own projects with minimal oversight
- Document wins and lessons learned for the team

## YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Core requirements (all disciplines):

- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or similar
- 0-5 years of technical experience in a Manufacturing, Production, or Process Engineering environment
- Hands-on experience solving problems in complex manufacturing systems
- Ability to effectively deliver on complex assignments with autonomy
- Foundational knowledge in complex manufacturing processes
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Additional discipline-specific experience (one or more of):

- Avionics & Test: Debugging electro-mechanical systems, understanding of instrumentation and sensors
- Composites: Knowledge of advanced composites materials, tooling, and manufacturing processes
- Machining: GD&T and inspection methods, CAM software for 3 and 5-axis CNC machines, 2+ years machine shop experience
- Assembly & Integration: Experience with mechanical assembly, integration, or test processes

## BONUS POINTS FOR:

- Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing
- Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma knowledge
- Cross-discipline manufacturing exposure
- Experience with ERP/PLM Systems (Siemens Team Center, Infor LN)
- Knowledge of production quality metrics
- Experience with environmental and production acceptance testing (vibration, shock, thermal, vacuum)
- Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors (power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, 4-20mA sensors)

## EXPECTATIONS

- Provide solutions and ideas when faced with engineering challenges
- Share knowledge on effectiveness of theories and concepts
- Navigate and complete daily tasks within technical systems
- Create and improve technical documentation
- Communicate effectively with peers and contribute to team objectives
- Demonstrate professionalism, punctuality, and adherence to company policies
- Ensure health and safety policies and procedures are followed at all times

## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

- Domestic and international travel may be required
- Additional duties as reasonably required
- Adherence to company policies and procedures is expected

## 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](https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&d=DwMFog&c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&e=).

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/01/23/2020-00574/international-traffic-in-arms-regulations-us-munitions-list-categories-i-ii-and-iii)

## About Rocket Lab Corporation

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components, and on-orbit management [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Entity Type**: Public (NASDAQ: RKLB) – went public via SPAC merger in August 2021 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab).
- **Headquarters**: Long Beach, California, USA (with additional facilities in New Zealand, Virginia, Maryland, Colorado, Canada, and elsewhere) [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Founded**: 2006
- **Founders**: Peter Beck

## Core Business
- **Primary industries**: Aerospace, space launch services, satellite manufacturing, and space systems components.
- **Target customers**: Commercial satellite operators, civil space agencies (NASA, NOAA), defence customers (U.S. Space Force, NRO), and research institutions.
- **Mission**: "Unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth" [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).

## Products & Services
- **Electron**: Small orbital launch vehicle – the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, with over 75 missions as of January 2026 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab). Also used for the suborbital HASTE hypersonic testbed.
- **Neutron**: Reusable medium-lift launch vehicle in development, targeting constellation deployment, interplanetary missions, and human spaceflight [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Photon**: Spacecraft platform for Earth orbit, lunar, and interplanetary missions (e.g., NASA CAPSTONE, ESCAPADE to Mars).
- **Satellite Components & Subsystems**: Star trackers, reaction wheels, solar panels, electric propulsion, software-defined radios, separation systems, advanced composite structures, and flight/ground software. Rocket Lab’s space systems technology has enabled more than 1,700 missions globally [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).

## Market Standing
- **Valuation / Market Cap**: Not provided in available sources (NASDAQ-traded; value fluctuates). The SPAC merger in 2021 was valued at approximately $4.1 billion, but current market cap should be verified via financial platforms.
- **Key Metric**: Over 2,600 employees globally as of May 2025 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab); more than 700 in New Zealand alone.
- **Notable Investors / Partners**: Vector Acquisition Corporation (SPAC partner). Key customers include NASA, U.S. Space Force, NRO, NOAA, BlackSky, and OHB Group.
- **Growth Signals**: Development of Neutron; record launch cadence (9 missions in 2022); opening new manufacturing and test facilities (Middle River MD, Stennis MS, Warkworth NZ); successful lunar mission (CAPSTONE) and Mars mission award (ESCAPADE).

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical integration**: Rocket Lab designs and manufactures its own rockets, spacecraft, satellite components, and operates its own launch sites – reducing cost and lead time.
- **High launch frequency & reliability**: Electron is the most frequently launched small rocket globally, with rapid turnaround (as fast as 15 days).
- **Reusable rocket technology**: Neutron will bring reusability to the medium-lift class, further lowering per-mission costs.
- **Southern Hemisphere launch site**: Only private orbital launch site at Mahia, New Zealand, providing unique orbital inclinations.
- **Proven interplanetary capability**: First private company to reach the Moon with CAPSTONE and win a Mars mission (ESCAPADE).

## Strategic Focus
- Complete development, test, and first launch of the Neutron rocket from Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia.
- Expand spacecraft and component manufacturing to serve the growing defence, civil, and commercial satellite markets.
- Pursue interplanetary and human-spaceflight capabilities.
- Increase launch cadence and begin recovery and reuse of Electron first stages.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture**: Driven, mission-focused environment with emphasis on “Trust, Innovation, and Excellence”. Values include “We are the best at what we do” and “Together we are unstoppable” [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).
- **Work & locations**: Multiple offices, factories, test, and launch sites across the U.S., New Zealand, and Canada. Hybrid/remote policy not explicitly stated; most roles appear on-site at specific facilities.
- **Projects**: Hands-on work with cutting-edge rockets, interplanetary spacecraft, advanced composites, and space software.
- **Perks & benefits**: Not detailed on the careers page, but the company offers a collaborative environment, career growth across many disciplines (engineering, tech, operations, finance, etc.), and the opportunity to contribute to high-impact space missions.
- **EEO & accommodations**: Rocket Lab provides reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).

## Sources
1. [rocketlabcorp.com – About Us](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/)
2. [rocketlabcorp.com – Careers](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/)
3. [en.wikipedia.org – Rocket Lab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab)
4. [linkedin.com – Rocket Lab](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocket-lab-corp)
5. [job-boards.greenhouse.io – Rocket Lab (careers portal)](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab)

## Other roles at Rocket Lab Corporation

- [Senior Aerodynamics Analyst](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-aerodynamics-analyst-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-86k7qt2wypx6) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Thermofluids Analyst](https://feeny.ai/job/thermofluids-analyst-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-4xrh3y9g41by) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Systems Engineer - Mechanical](https://feeny.ai/job/systems-engineer-mechanical-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-nmra1kzhapbz) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Senior Structural Analyst](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-structural-analyst-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-2dec47z6k0te) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Systems Engineer – Configuration & Change Management](https://feeny.ai/job/systems-engineer-configuration-change-management-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-6qr41d2q1zmh) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Senior Dynamics Analyst](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-dynamics-analyst-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-czp8qr4nba13) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Learning & Development Advisor](https://feeny.ai/job/learning-development-advisor-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-4y07g4m7p4r1) — Auckland, New Zealand
- [Senior Tool & Die Maker   - A Shift](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-tool-die-maker-a-shift-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-myyknxvshyhr) — Long Beach, CA
- [Senior Quality Engineer I](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-quality-engineer-i-rocket-lab-corporation-albuquerque-028dqqc2vtfq) — Albuquerque, NM
- [Leading Hand - Inventory](https://feeny.ai/job/leading-hand-inventory-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-0tbp51tn4yvm) — Auckland, New Zealand