Build Engineer 2 / Senior Build Engineer 1

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle designed to deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, with the potential for human spaceflight too. As a reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

BUILD ENGINEER

As a Build Engineer at our NASA Stennis rocket engine test facility in Mississippi, you will be the technical owner for the build activities of the Archimedes engine at the site. You will work hands-on with hardware, rapidly solving problems as they arise and driving continuous improvement in our build processes to enable a high test cadence across ongoing development, qualification and acceptance testing of Archimedes engines. This is a fast-paced, high-ownership role at the heart of our propulsion development efforts.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Own the build process for the Archimedes engine and related propulsion hardware at the test site.
• Design and implement improvements to shop floor layout and flow to optimize efficiency, safety, and quality of engine builds, including designing and purchasing of specialty tooling and equipment where needed.
• Develop, document, and improve procedures for assembly, integration and check-out operations.
• Create and maintain engine build work orders to ensure accurate and traceable assembly operations.
• Support technicians performing engine build work, resolving blockers, clarifying build requirements, and providing hands-on guidance as needed.
• Coordinate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure timely availability of engine parts and materials required for engine builds and rebuilds to support high cadence engine testing.
• Work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement design changes, resolve non-conformances, and drive hardware improvements.
• Maintain consistency with production operations at Neutron production sites by aligning build processes and standards wherever possible.
• Lead and participate in problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.

(This position can be hired as a Build Engineer II or Senior Build Engineer I Level)

 YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A BUILD ENGINEER II: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree.
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing, integration or assembly environment.
• Experience with propulsion systems, complex mechanical assemblies, or shop floor operations.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex, hands-on technical problems in real time.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR BUILD ENGINEER I: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing, integration or assembly environment.
• Experience with propulsion systems, complex mechanical assemblies, or shop floor operations.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex, hands-on technical problems in real time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Detailed knowledge of Siemens NX or similar CAD and PLM packages.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Detailed knowledge of quality standards for typical assembly and production products.
• Proficient with all types of hand tools and basic integration, inspection and check-out equipment.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design, fluid systems, and instrumentation.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas