Materials and Process Engineer II/Senior

Job Description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Materials and Process Engineer to join their team in Long Beach, CA. This role involves analyzing, researching, and developing materials and surface treatments for the Neutron vehicle and Archimedes engines. The engineer will collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to solve complex material and processing challenges, support material selection for engine design, and assist in the development of engineering drawings and documents.

What this role involves:

• Applying principles of chemistry, physics, and material behavior to develop metallic material, processing specifications, fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Developing, analyzing, and applying material properties and allowables, processes, and quality engineering specifications.
• Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to solve complex material and processing challenges across the Neutron Program.
• Supporting material selection for engine design requirements.
• Assisting in the development and release of engineering drawings and documents.
• Engaging in expeditious component failure analyses and evaluations to prevent production line stoppage.
• Performing material analyses including failure analysis of components, systems and subsystems, life predictions, as well as definition and requirement specifications.
• Reviewing and approving subcontractor material processing procedures.
• Developing qualification plans for material and processes to demonstrate compliance to design requirements.
• Performing and supporting metallographic and mechanical testing for material characterization.
• Performing root cause investigations using fractography, metallography, and testing.
• Providing technical documentation and input to support peer and customer reviews.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Materials, Aerospace, Manufacturing or similar).
• 2+ years (for Engineer II) or 5+ years (for Senior Engineer) of experience in a materials engineering or materials process engineering role with an emphasis in metal additive manufacturing.
• Experience in a metallurgical laboratory within an aerospace or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with material requirements for aerospace applications.

What Rocket Lab offers:

• Company equity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
• Paid parental leave
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Discounted employee stock purchase program
• Subsidized EV charging stations
• Onsite gym, food, and drinks
• Childcare concierge