Production Planning Manager
Rocket Lab
About The Role
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
SUPPLY CHAIN
Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together, and are critical to our success.
PRODUCTION PLANNING MANAGER
Production Planning Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that manufacturing operations are efficient, cost-effective, and capable of meeting customer demands.
Based in our Auckland Production Complex, Production Planning Manager will be responsible for overseeing the planning and scheduling of production operations to ensure that production targets are met on time and within budget.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
- Develop detailed production plans and schedules to meet customer orders and internal demand forecasts.
- Coordinate with procurement to ensure raw materials and components are available as required.
- Allocate resources, including labour, machinery, and materials, effectively to maximize efficiency.
- Prepare and manage production budgets, ensuring costs are controlled and within planned levels.
- Collect and analyse production data to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement.
- Prepare regular reports on production performance, including KPIs such as efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery.
- Lead and participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and safety.
- Implement lean manufacturing principles and other best practices to streamline production processes.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and effective communication regarding production plans and changes.
- Serve as a key point of contact for production-related issues and communicate status updates to stakeholders.
- Ensure production processes comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and internal quality control measures.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Business Management, or a related Advanced degrees and certifications (e.g., APICS CPIM, PMP) are a plus.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in production planning or a similar role, preferably in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years in a managerial position.
- Familiarity with QMS software to ensure compliance with quality standards and to manage control processes effectively.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
- Proficiency in production planning software (e.g., ERP, MRP systems) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Competence in using data analytics tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar to analyse production data and generate insightful reports.
- Familiarity with project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or Jira to plan, track, and manage production-related projects.
- Understanding and application of Lean methodologies and tools such as value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen, and Six Sigma to improve production efficiency and quality.
- Knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) or Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software if the role involves designing production layouts or working closely with design teams.
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
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