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Salary: USD 70,000 - 171,600 / annual
Rocket Lab is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer (multiple levels available: I, II, Senior I, Senior II) to join the Neutron program, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle development effort. Based in Long Beach, CA, you will serve as a critical liaison between internal customers and external suppliers, translating technical requirements into clear specifications and driving quality, cost, and process improvements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement inspection strategies for large, complex machined components using advanced measurement techniques (CMM, laser trackers, precision tools)
- Collaborate with design and engineering teams to address manufacturability challenges and tolerance stack-ups
- Establish supplier quality systems and processes; generate performance metrics and visibility tools
- Perform on-site and remote supplier audits; create quality control plans and non-conformance reports
- Drive root-cause analysis and corrective action implementation using PFMEA, 8D, and similar problem-solving tools
- Support suppliers in scaling production processes and introducing new products (NPI, APQP, PPAP)
- Manage supplier concessions and identify opportunities to reduce risk, cost, and lead time
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and quality policies at Rocket Lab and supplier sites
- Liaise between suppliers, development, production, and senior management
The role involves prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, with occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
Requirements vary by level:
**Supplier Quality Engineer I:**
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
- Experience working in a regulated industry (Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, Industrial, or similar)
- Previous experience in a supplier quality role
- Experience with GD&T and drawing interpretation
**Supplier Quality Engineer II:**
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a regulated industry
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
- Previous experience in a supplier quality role
- Experience with GD&T and drawing interpretation
**Senior Supplier Quality Engineer I:**
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a regulated industry
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
- Previous experience in a supplier quality role
- Experience with GD&T and drawing interpretation
**Senior Supplier Quality Engineer II:**
- Minimum 8 years' experience in a regulated industry
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
- Previous experience in a supplier quality role
- Experience with GD&T and drawing interpretation
Desirable qualifications include: composites manufacturing exposure, regulatory standards knowledge (AS9100, ISO9001, ISO13485, IATF 16949), fabrication/CNC/3D printing knowledge, KPI development, root-cause investigation experience, project management, Lean/Six Sigma, MSA/Gauge R&R, and NPI/APQP/PPAP experience.
Note: Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or eligible to obtain required ITAR authorizations from the U.S. Department of State/Commerce.
