Senior AFP Programmer

About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems, providing reliable access to orbit since 2018. Our Electron rocket has become one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. We're now developing Neutron, a reusable launch platform capable of delivering mega constellations, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a Senior AFP Programmer, you'll play a critical role in building large-scale components for our Neutron Launch Vehicle using cutting-edge technologies and space-grade materials.

Key Responsibilities:
Be the Rocket Lab expert in AFP Programming, working closely with composites/manufacturing Engineering to mature our AFP process for manufacturing very large composite parts. Contribute to design reviews, driving the transition to AFP from traditional composites manufacturing processes. Identify risks and improvements to develop the manufacturing engineering department to meet company needs. Develop and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians daily.

Requirements:
High School Diploma or GED. 8+ years experience in composites production and programming. Experience in programming large automated equipment. Understanding of Composites manufacturing. Experience working with cross-functional teams to solve hard problems on tight schedules. Strong foundation in 3D CAD systems. Experience working with Electroimpact equipment, Siemens NX / Fibersim, VCP (Vericut Composites Programming), VCS (Vericut Composites Simulation), and Automated Fiber Placement technology. Experience in Autoclave and Out-of-Autoclave composite manufacturing techniques. Experience in qualification and acceptance testing of composite structural components. 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.

What to Expect:
We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. 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. 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, 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 Biow at 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.

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