Manufacturing Engineer Trainee

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER TRAINEE  

As a manufacturing engineer trainee based at Rocket Lab’s site in Long Beach, California, you will collaborate closely with our manufacturing engineering team. This role offers a unique developmental opportunity, combining hands-on projects with operational and manufacturing experience, directly contributing to the company's performance and success. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO 

• As a manufacturing engineer trainee, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally. 

• Work with a fast-paced group of professionals to apply engineering and industry concepts to solve real challenges. 

• Attend frequent 1:1’s with mentors and supervisors to facilitate success and learning while providing progress updates. 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS  

Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in small, high-performing teams that are focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring to the role, your ability to lead development projects without supervision, and your ability to successfully collaborate across teams to deliver results.  

• Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master's or doctorate degree program in an engineering discipline such as Manufacturing, Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial Engineering or Physics.  

• GPA of 3.0 or above. 

• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable).  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE  

• GPA of 3.5 or above.  

• 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable). 

• General understanding of machining methods (Milling and Turning).  

• Knowledge of machining process flows or routers/work instructions. 

• Experience with manufacturing production processes. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS  

• Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning July or August 2024.  

COMPENSATION AND OTHER BENEFITS 

• Pay Range CA: $28.00 USD Hourly 

• You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs 

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 Biow 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.