Senior Tool & Die Maker - A Shift

Senior Tool & Die Maker

Based at Rocket Lab's EDC facility in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Tool & Die Maker plays a key role in machining and developing new products and product updates for both Rutherford and Archimedes engines. This position supports the Machine Shop and Tool Design teams, contributing to various projects and deliverables across the shop.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Design, fabricate, and maintain precision tools from engineering drawings.
• Operate manual and CNC machine tools to close tolerances.
• Interpret complex engineering blueprints and CAD/CAM models.
• Diagnose and repair worn or broken tooling.
• Maintain organized tool crib and documentation of tooling.

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience operating machining equipment, including conventional and CNC lathes/milling machines
• Expertise in using surface grinders
• Proficiency with EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) equipment
• Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
• Skilled in blueprint reading
• Experience with precision measurement tools and equipment
• Ability to machine components to tolerances as tight as ±0.0001"
• High school diploma or GED equivalent

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification
• Siemens NX experience
• CMM experience

Additional Requirements:

• Willing to work A Shift (Monday – Thursday 5:00am - 3:30pm)
• Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces
• Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, awkward positions, and tight areas as needed
• Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and stooping
• Use hands with precision to handle, control, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
• Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Hourly Pay Range (CA Only): $30 - $40 USD

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.