Lead Welder

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. 

Lead Welder

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Lead Welder to oversee the end-to-end operations of our Tube Shop manufacturing cell. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in tube cutting, bending, flaring, TIG welding, OTW welding, borescoping, and a strong awareness of FOD (Foreign Object Debris) control. This leadership role requires managing daily operations, driving safety and quality initiatives, and ensuring timely delivery of assemblies to our customers.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:  

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations within the Tube Shop manufacturing cell.
• Conduct daily safety meetings to promote a safe working environment.
• Set weekly goals and expectations for the team to achieve production and quality targets.
• Assign work orders (WOs) to technicians and clearly communicate daily expectations.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication regarding the status of assemblies and expected delivery dates to internal teams and customers.
• Open and manage new work orders, ensuring all documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Identify and communicate non-conformities to engineering teams and initiate Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) as necessary.
• Maintain all machines and tooling within the department, order and replace new tooling as needed.
• Provide hands-on training across sub-cells to develop and maintain the skill sets required for end-to-end tube manufacturing.
• Lead and champion 5S initiatives within the cell to maintain an organized, efficient, and clean work environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to FOD awareness and control procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to continuously improve processes and quality standards.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEAD WELDER:  

• 8+ years of hands-on experience in tube manufacturing processes including tube cutting, bending, flaring, TIG welding, OTW welding, and borescoping
• Strong knowledge of FOD awareness and control
• Experience with opening and managing NCRs and working closely with engineering teams.
• Proficient in 5S methodology and continuous improvement practices

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Certification or formal training in welding or tube manufacturing processes.
• Experience with aerospace or high-precision manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with manufacturing software and work order management systems.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple work orders and priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and lead by example
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to clearly convey status updates and expectations
• Previous experience leading a manufacturing team or cell, with the ability to manage daily operations and lead safety meetings

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• 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