Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Avionics (Night Shift, 4 day week)

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. AVIONICS As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer – Avionics , you’ll have the rare opportunity to work hands-on with Electron , our proven satellite launcher, and Neutron , our next-generation medium-lift rocket. You’ll be at the forefront of transitioning these vehicles from RD to production, ensuring they meet the highest standards of reliability and performance. This role is more than just engineering – it’s about taking ownership, solving complex problems, and driving innovation in a fast-paced, test-heavy production environment. WHAT YOU’LL DO: Take ownership of critical projects, ensuring processes are optimised for production and testing. Solve problems across avionics, electrical, mechanical, and software systems, bridging gaps between disciplines to deliver seamless solutions. Contribute to the transition of Neutron hardware from prototype to production by supporting rigorous testing processes and ensuring all systems meet operational standards. Investigate and resolve non-conformances by working with cross-functional teams, including production, design, and engineering. Work closely with production teams, designers, and engineers across avionics, electrical, mechanical, and software disciplines. Build strong relationships with technicians and subject matter experts to enable efficient testing and operations. Coordinate efforts between mechanical engineers and avionics specialists to address compatibility challenges, ensuring all systems integrate flawlessly. Develop and implement processes that streamline testing operations, ensuring overflow tasks are managed effectively. Be deeply involved in day-to-day production and testing, ensuring hardware is reliable and ready for launch. SCHEDULE: 4-Day Week (Mon–Thurs) | Late Start | Long Weekends, Every Week Hours: 3:00 PM – 1:30 AM Work on Neutron and Electron: A unique chance to work on Electron, the second most frequently launched rocket globally, and Neutron, currently in production and set to redefine space launch capabilities. Ownership Impact: We need people who take ownership of their work and drive results. As a leader, you’ll set the standard for excellence and coach others to do the same. Global Collaboration: Potential opportunities to travel to the US and collaborate with international teams, bringing back insights to improve local processes. Transition from RD to Production: Be part of the exciting transition of Neutron and Electron from research and development to production, ensuring hardware is stable and ready for everyday use. ESSENTIAL SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. 7+ years of experience as a Manufacturing/Production/Process Engineer. Hands-on technical experience debugging complex systems in a manufacturing environment. Proven leadership and coaching experience. Strong communication skills with the ability to write clear and concise KPIs. Fl ... (truncated, view full listing at source)