Production Specialist - Space Systems

Rocket Lab•Auckland, E7 1010, NZ• Full Time

Posted 1 hour ago• Business & Finance

Job Description

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.

🎬

Video Content

Videos are hosted externally for security

Watch Video ↗

At Rocket Lab, we don’t just launch rockets - we launch possibilities. From reliable access to orbit with Electron, to the groundbreaking reusable Neutron, and missions to the Moon and Mars, our Space Systems team is redefining what’s possible in space exploration.

Now, we’re looking for a Production Specialist to join our growing team and help us push boundaries even further. This is your chance to work on cutting-edge spacecraft systems, collaborate with world-class talent, and contribute to missions that shape the future of humanity’s presence in space.

Be a pioneer working on bespoke satellites, mega constellations, and groundbreaking science missions.
Take ownership of spacecraft components, assemblies, and integration activities.
Drive continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and design enhancements.
Partner with engineers, technicians, and experts across departments to deliver excellence.
Solve complex problems, lead investigations, and contribute to missions that matter.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Lead production and development of spacecraft systems.
Drive design improvements, process optimizations, and cost-saving initiatives.
Manage timelines, risks, and cross-functional collaboration.
Create technical documentation and ensure manufacturing excellence.
Step in as a production lead when needed.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

10+ years of hands-on technical expertise with electrical or mechanical systems.
Proven ability to debug complex systems and deliver results under pressure.
A self-starter who can manage multiple projects, drive KPIs, and lead by example.
Someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment and embraces challenges.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively across teams.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Familiarity with environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal, vacuum).
Knowledge of instrumentation, sensors, and avionics systems.
Experience with ERP/PM systems like Siemens Team Center or Infor LN.
Expertise in DFMEA, PFMEA, and root cause analysis methodologies.

Apply now!

Closing date for submission for internal candidates, COB Tuesday, 24 March 2026

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected].This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.