Full-Time

Quality Engineering Lead-Launch Systems

Updated on 11/11/2024

Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab USA

1,001-5,000 employees

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

Aerospace
Defense

Compensation Overview

$95k - $145kAnnually

Senior, Expert

No H1B Sponsorship

Long Beach, CA, USA

US Citizenship Required

Category
QA & Testing
Quality Assurance
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial, material sciences engineering, or similar engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of experience as a quality engineer in mechanical focused manufacturing environment
  • Hands-on quality and testing experience
  • Strong Knowledge of quality tools such as Lean principles, Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action, Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Metrology, Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Control Plans, or various problem-solving approaches.
  • 3+ years of experience in a leadership position
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement new Quality Control Processes and Standards.
  • Lead, facilitate, and participate in root cause investigations.
  • Ensure adherence to QMS policy and procedures within their work center and creation of procedures when needed.
  • Efficiently communicate status of evaluation and disposition to leadership.
  • Lead and coordinate management of non-conforming hardware, including ticket dispositions, analysis, and improvement projects.
  • Lead cost saving initiatives, especially related to product yield.
  • Contribute to design reviews to reduce quality risk and time lost due to non-conformances.
  • Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S.
  • Lead a team of Quality engineers through development and improvement initiatives.

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket since its debut in 2018, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit for various sectors. Rocket Lab differentiates itself from competitors by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, with multiple launch sites and a focus on affordability and reliability. The company's goal is to make space more accessible and to support a wide range of missions, from national security to scientific exploration.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$1.5B

Headquarters

Long Beach, California

Founded

2006

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

14%

1 year growth

34%

2 year growth

77%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • The expansion in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with a $70 million investment and creation of 100 new jobs, indicates strong growth and job opportunities.
  • Significant investments from firms like Verus Capital Partners and Susquehanna Fundamental Investments reflect strong market confidence in Rocket Lab's future.
  • Government funding, including $41 million from the Chips Act and $44 million from New Mexico, bolsters Rocket Lab's financial stability and capacity for innovation.

What critics are saying

  • The competitive landscape of the space industry, with major players like SpaceX, could pressure Rocket Lab to continuously innovate to maintain its market position.
  • Delays or failures in the development of the Neutron launch vehicle could impact Rocket Lab's ability to capture larger payload markets.

What makes Rocket Lab USA unique

  • Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicle is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, showcasing a proven track record of reliability and success.
  • The company's Photon spacecraft platform has been selected for high-profile NASA missions, including those to the Moon and Mars, setting it apart from competitors.
  • Rocket Lab's dual launch sites in New Zealand and Virginia provide operational flexibility and increased launch frequency, a strategic advantage over competitors with fewer launch sites.

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