AFP Operator - All Levels- Weekend Shift

About this role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

AFP OPERATOR

Rocket Lab is building parts with the world's largest post-style automated fiber placement machine (AFP) at our Space Structures Complex in Middle River. As an AFP Operator, you’ll get to build some of the largest carbon fiber composite fuselage structures ever made using cutting-edge technologies and space grade materials.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Set up, calibrate, maintain, and operate the Rocket Lab Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machine to manufacture large carbon fiber structures for the Neutron Rocket.

• Clean and perform routine maintenance on AFP machine parts and subassemblies.

• Collaborate with Engineering and Programming teams to drive continuous process improvements.

• Work with the facilities team to ensure all equipment remains safe, efficient, and operational.

• Train on new processes and assist in transitioning new components to AFP manufacturing.

• Load and unload composite tooling and molds from the AFP machine.

• Gain hands-on experience diagnosing defects, performing rework and splice repairs, and loading/unloading composite materials onto the AFP machine while ensuring proper alignment and placement during the lamination process.

• Contribute to the creation and resolution of Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs).

• Document machine stoppages, reference Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and follow detailed Work Instructions.

• Provide support for additional build activities across the site as needed.

(This position can be hired as a AFP Operator I, AFP Operator II, AFP Operator III, or Senior AFP Operator)

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AFP OPERATOR I:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Basic knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret Drawings and GD&T.

• Basic math skills (including decimals, fractions, and conversions).

• Familiarity with measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AFP OPERATOR II:

• High School Diploma or GED

• 2+ years of experience in machining or composites manufacturing.

• Basic knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret Drawings and GD&T.

• Basic math skills (including decimals, fractions, and conversions).

• Familiarity with measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AFP OPERATOR III:

• High School Diploma or GED

• 5+ years of experience in composites production and manufacturing, including expertise in filament winding, Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), and related processes.

• Basic knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret Drawings and GD&T.

• Basic math skills (including decimals, fractions, and conversions).

• Familiarity with measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR AFP OPERATOR:

• High School Diploma or GED

• 8+ years of experience in composites production and manufacturing, including expertise in filament winding, Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), and related processes.

• Basic knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret Drawings and GD&T.

• Basic math skills (including decimals, fractions, and conversions).

• Familiarity with measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Associate’s degree in a technical field

• Skilled in reading and interpreting technical drawings and production documentation

• Hands-on experience in setting up and operating filament winding or AFP machines

• Proficient in operating CNC or robotic equipment

• Background in the aerospace industry

• Familiarity with industrial support equipment, including scissor lifts and boom lifts

• Certified in crane and forklift operation

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work Friday - Saturday (7:00 am - 7:00 pm est OR 7:00 pm - 7:00 am est)

• Stand and walk extended periods ( 8+ hours) on production floor

• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling

• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity, and hand-eye coordination

• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.

• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions

• 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. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, and free snacks/drinks onsite.

Eligibility for bene

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