Supervisor - Neutron Mechanical Production

NEUTRON

Neutron is Rocket Lab's next-generation medium-lift launch vehicle, purpose-built for the mega constellation era and beyond. Designed to deliver 13,000 kg to low Earth orbit, Neutron features a reusable first stage, large 7-meter fairing, and streamlined operations that will provide unmatched reliability, flexibility, and value for constellation deployment, resupply missions, and deep space exploration. This is your opportunity to build a rocket from the ground up and shape the future of space access.

THE ROLE

Lead the development, qualification, and production of Neutron mechanical system components and assemblies. You'll manage quality, schedules, and the safety and efficiency of your technician team while contributing to manufacturing methods and providing design-for-manufacture feedback to engineering teams.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Lead up to 20 technicians assembling and testing development, qualification, and flight article mechanical components and assemblies to meet quality and schedule requirements
• Own health and safety in your area, ensuring all procedures are followed, training is completed, and safety culture is role modeled across the team
• Plan work to a 3-month horizon with engineering and program management, allocate tasks to meet schedules, and identify and mitigate schedule risks
• Ensure team follows manufacturing instructions and drawings, conduct root-cause analysis, implement corrective actions, and authorize release of flight components
• Conduct performance reviews, manage leave schedules, interview candidates, and develop leadership capabilities in direct reports
• Support R&D activities, assist with pre-production manufacturing, and transition processes to full-rate production
• Report daily team metrics and outputs while managing the team's skills matrix and training requirements
• Set and inspire standards of process, behavior, and workmanship across all departments you engage with

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• NZ: High School diploma, NCEA level 2 (at least 60 credits), or equivalent
• Minimum 8 years relevant industry experience
• Minimum 5 years in aviation/aerospace manufacturing
• Proven ability to manage resources for production rate increases
• Demonstrated leadership development of direct reports
• Track record of process improvement and efficiency gains
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to read and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Physical ability to perform hands-on work in a manufacturing environment

If the above sounds like you apply now!