CNC Programmer / Senior CNC ProgrammerBased in Long Beach, CA the CNC Programmer is responsible for the machining development of new products and product revisions as related to both Rutherford and Archimedes engines at Rocket Lab's Engine Development Center. You will support the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.(This position can be hired as a CNC Programmer or Senior CNC Programmer Level)What you'll get to do:Develop machining capability in-house for the Archimedes components and implement rapid iterations.Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.Collaborate with production teams to ensure the CNC programs are compatible with the latest machine tools and technologies and suggest improvements to enhance the production process.Establish and maintain machining process documentation, including tool selection, feeds and speeds, and inspection plans.Continuously improve machining processes and procedures to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality.Collaborate with other Rocket Lab machine shops for general alignment, capability, and support.You'll bring these qualifications as a CNC Programmer:5+ years of experience in CNC programmingExtensive experience rapidly iterating NX CAM or similar programsExperience operating 5-axis mill CNC equipmentProficient in GD&TYou'll bring these qualifications as a Senior CNC Programmer:8+ years of experience in CNC programmingExtensive experience rapidly iterating NX CAM programsExperience operating 5-axis mill CNC equipmentProficient in GD&TThese qualifications would be nice to have:Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related fieldExperience with turbomachinery components in aerospace or energy industriesStrong knowledge of machining processes, including 5-axis machining, multi-axis turning, and mill-turn operationsExperience with CMM and other inspection equipmentFamiliarity with post processing methods, AM and weldingCompetent navigating DMG Mori CELOS with Siemens 840Additional requirements:Ability to work the following shift: Monday - Thursday 5:00AM- 3:30PMAbility to travel and communicate outside of work hoursMust be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as neededRepetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position.Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls.Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours minMust be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted.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, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.
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 (CA Only): $35 - $55 USDWhat 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 Johnson at 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.