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!

SENIOR COMPOSITES ENGINEER, AUTOMATED FIBER PLACEMENT 

Rocket Lab is installing the world’s largest post-style automated fiber placement machine (AFP) at our Space Structures Complex in Middle River in order to build large scale components for our new Neutron Launch Vehicle. As a Senior Composites Engineer you’ll get to build some of the largest carbon fiber composite fuselage structures ever made using cutting edge technologies and space grade materials.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Manage final installation and qualification of AFP machine, supporting equipment, and environmental enclosure. 
• Become the subject matter expert for the AFP process within Rocket Lab. 
• Interface with equipment supplier and be the primary point of contact for troubleshooting and upgrades 
• Learn how to program the AFP machine 
• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor sign-offs 
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where reqluired to achieve safety, quality, delivery and cost requirements 
• Lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations 
• Quickly analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances 
• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems 
• Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians daily

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering, or other technical degree. 
• 5 years of composites experience.
• Experience in the selection, procurement, and installation of composite manufacturing equipment.
• Experience working with and/or programming heavy equipment (robot, CNC, etc) 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with Automated Fiber Placement 
• Experience with capacity modeling, process mapping, Lean/Six Sigma and value stream mapping.
• Strong foundation working with CAD (We use NX).
• Experience both Autoclave and Out-of-Autoclave composite manufacturing techniques.
• Experience with Non-Destructive Testing/Inspection of composite components.
• Experience in qualification and acceptance testing of composite structural components.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.