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Posted 09 June, 2026

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Avionics

Rocket Lab Corporation
Auckland, NZ Full Time
Reference: 102_717952_6237818003

ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS:

It began with the CAPSTONE mission, supporting NASA's NASA Artemis program by launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the Moon. From there, the team reached another milestone - becoming only the second company ever to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, opening new possibilities in microgravity manufacturing. Now, the journey continues.

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER

In this role, you'll help shape the future of Ion Propulsion systems - supporting products from early-stage R&D through to scaled manufacturing and delivery to orbit. Working in a fast-paced environment where research meets production, you'll contribute across design, testing, process development, and manufacturing optimisation to enable reliable, high-quality propulsion systems at scale.

You'll work across a diverse portfolio of advanced space technologies, including:

  • Ion Propulsion - supporting the transition of next-generation engines from prototype development into scalable production
  • Reaction Wheel Production - improving high-volume manufacturing processes for complex mechatronic systems while supporting new product introduction
  • Satellite Buses - contributing across short-run builds spanning both design and manufacturing phases, providing broad product lifecycle exposure

This role has a strong technical focus on electrical systems, testing, harnessing, and PCB inspection and validation.

You'll work closely with the Avionics Test and Avionics Manufacturing teams, partnering with engineers, technicians, and stakeholders across the business. The environment is collaborative, hands-on, and internationally diverse, with strong cross-functional engagement, knowledge sharing, and a balance of innovation-driven R&D and production delivery.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Develop, implement, and improve quality documentation (procedures, work instructions, inspection records)
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies
  • Drive process optimisation and waste reduction in manufacturing workflows
  • Organize and lead process reviews and audits at an organizational level
  • Analyse production and test data to identify trends and implement corrective actions
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to improve product quality and performance
  • Train and mentor production staff on best practices and quality standards

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, quality, project, or design engineering
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Engineering
  • Strong electrical and/or mechanical engineering expertise
  • Hands-on experience troubleshooting and resolving non-conformances
  • Experience developing, operating, and validating test rigs, systems, and methods
  • Strong programming capability for test system development, automation, and data analysis
  • Proficiency in Python, C++, SQL, and controls/electrical systems
  • Solid understanding of Lean & Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis, Corrective Actions, FMEA, APQP, and Control Plans
  • Experience working within Quality Management Systems (QMS)
  • Proven ability to make sound engineering decisions and assess technical feasibility

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Experience with Siemens Teamcenter or Infor LN
  • Knowledge of production quality metrics
  • Experience transitioning products from prototype to production
  • Experience implementing change in compliance-driven environments
  • PPS problem-solving experience

This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and real-world impact - helping deliver the next generation of propulsion systems that will power missions beyond Earth.

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