Lead Supplier Quality Engineer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing responsive launch services alongside satellite design, manufacturing, payload handling, and component production. Our mission revolves around facilitating access to space for scientific research, Earth observation, climate change initiatives, national security, and cutting-edge technology demonstrations. The Electron rocket is among the most frequently launched U.S. rockets, with over 230 satellites deployed to orbit. We are also developing our Neutron reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for broader constellation deployment. Our Space Systems division is responsible for crafting satellites, payloads, and components, contributing to notable NASA Moon and Mars missions and instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope.

Supply Chain Overview

The Supply Chain department manages the flow of all materials, ensuring that products and components meet critical quality standards vital to the success of our rocket and satellite programs. This team handles assembly kits for Electron rockets, inventory management, shipping and receiving, procurement (both direct and indirect), and quality assurance through inspections to ensure compliance.

Role Summary

Situated in Auckland, New Zealand, the Lead Supplier Quality Engineer leads a team focused on maintaining stringent quality standards for procured parts and processes. This key role serves as the communication hub between internal stakeholders and suppliers, converting intricate technical requirements into practical and clear quality standards. Your leadership will drive continuous supplier improvement, implement quality processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency, whilst balancing the demands of both suppliers and internal teams. Responsibilities include overseeing non-conformance reports, supplier audits, supplier concessions, and identifying enhancements to minimize risk, costs, and lead times.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide and motivate a team of Supplier Quality Engineers, fostering collaboration and accountability to meet demanding targets.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive supplier quality systems and processes to guarantee consistent quality delivery.
• Use performance metrics and analytical tools to evaluate supplier performance and quality trends.
• Lead initiatives aimed at improving product quality, minimizing non-conformances, and optimizing supplier processes using root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Assist suppliers in scaling production and onboarding new products, including New Product Introduction (NPI), Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP).
• Facilitate clear communication and alignment among suppliers, internal teams, and executive leadership regarding technical and quality expectations.

Candidate Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in quality roles, ideally within regulated sectors such as Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, or Industrial manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering disciplines such as Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechatronic Engineering.
• Expertise in quality systems, interpreting engineering drawings, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), and specialized manufacturing techniques including fabrication, CNC machining, PCB assembly, and 3D printing.
• Skilled in root cause analysis methods (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) and practical problem-solving approaches.
• Established capability in project leadership, supplier relationship management, and executing continuous quality improvements.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness and ability to work extended hours, including some nights or weekends as necessary.
• Required visual capabilities include close, distance, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focusing ability.
• Regular physical activities include sitting, manual dexterity with hands and fingers, computer operation, and effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to commute to workplace premises and tolerate occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab is dedicated to fostering a supportive and high-performance environment focused on achieving ambitious space exploration milestones. Our culture prizes teamwork, resilience, and a strong commitment to overcoming challenges and delivering results under pressure.

Compliance Notices: For work in New Zealand, background screening including nationality verification is required to comply with U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must hold citizenship from eligible countries (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU countries, NATO member states) and meet eligibility requirements for access to controlled equipment and data. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair hiring practices without discrimination.