AFP Operator - All Levels

Rocket Lab Corporation•Middle River, MD

8d•$20 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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).

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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.