Senior Supplier Quality Engineer II

Responsibilities

• Own the quality relationship with strategic subcontractors building complete box-level assemblies
• Serve as the primary point of contact between engineering, program management, and subcontractor teams
• Review and approve subcontractor Quality Management Plans, Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs), and acceptance test procedures
• Conduct in-process and pre-shipment source inspections at subcontractor facilities
• Lead supplier nonconformance disposition and CAPA management
• Monitor and report on subcontractor quality performance metrics
• Drive DFM and DFT feedback loops between design teams and subcontractors
• Support qualification and first article activities including review of test reports and traceability documentation
• Manage supplier concessions and waivers through the disposition process
• Lead or support subcontractor quality system audits
• Contribute to make/buy decisions and new subcontractor selection

Requirements

• Minimum 8 years of experience in a regulated industry such as Aerospace, Defense, or Space
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical, or Mechatronic Engineering
• Prior experience in a supplier quality or subcontract management role
• Proficiency with GD&T and engineering drawing interpretation
• Direct experience managing external suppliers producing complex hardware deliverables

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with satellite bus or payload subsystems
• Understanding of space-grade component requirements and derating practices
• PCBA manufacturing and inspection knowledge (IPC-A-610 Class 3)
• Experience with environmental stress screening (ESS), thermal-vacuum (TVAC), and EMI/EMC testing
• Familiarity with AS9100 and space-specific quality standards
• Knowledge of structured problem-solving methodologies like 8D or A3
• Proficiency with MRP/ERP systems, Jira, Confluence, or Power BI

About the Company

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more.