Machining & Manufacturing Engineer

About this role

iRocket (Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc.) is pioneering fully autonomous, fully reusable small launch vehicles for responsive access to space. We leverage cutting-edge propulsion, reuse, and sustainable propellant technologies to make launch more frequent, lower cost, and eco-friendly. We are headquartered in New Hyde Park, NY.

The Role

As a Machining & Manufacturing Engineer at iRocket, you will own the development, optimization, and scaling of high-precision manufacturing processes for rocket hardware. You will work cross-functionally with design, test, supply chain, and quality teams to mature processes from prototype through production. You will report to the Senior Manager of Manufacturing Engineering.

• Develop, validate, and refine machining processes (CNC turning, milling, EDM, grinding, etc.) for rocket components
• Collaborate with design engineers to ensure manufacturability, offer design for manufacturing (DFM) feedback, and propose design changes where beneficial
• Create and maintain manufacturing BOMs, process flows, work instructions, and SOPs
• Support installation, calibration, qualification, and commissioning of new machines and tooling
• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for production issues and drive corrective and preventive actions
• Implement process controls, error-proofing, statistical monitoring, and quality gates
• Participate in manufacturability reviews and design reviews to provide input from a manufacturing perspective
• Document and drive continuous improvement in process maturity, standardization, and scaling
• Support aerospace / defense compliance efforts (e.g. AS9100, aerospace quality standards)
• Occasionally support mission-critical deadlines which may require non-standard hours

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline
• 3+ years of experience in machining / manufacturing engineering in aerospace, defense, or precision industries
• Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerancing, fixtures, tooling, materials, machining best practices
• Hands-on experience developing machining processes, tooling, fixturing
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
• Ability to work cross-functionally, strong problem solving, and data analysis skills
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Master’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering
• Experience with aerospace quality systems (AS9100, NADCAP, etc.)
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing, welding, exotic materials, or hybrid manufacturing methods
• Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, Kaizen)
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM or manufacturing software (e.g. NX, SolidWorks, Mastercam, etc.)
• Experience in propulsion, space, or high-reliability systems

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Wellness Resources