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Electrical Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Engineer Location: Sunnyvale, CA Exp: 4-10 years We are seeking a highly skilled and ... Power Consumption measurement of various device use cases done in on-site lab environment

Support environmental, electrical, and mechanical tests such as thermal cycling, damp heat ... Set up and configure lab instruments including power supplies, electronic loads, multimeters ...

We are hiring Electrical Engineering Lab Technicians to support the hands-on build, test, and debug of satellite avionics hardware. You will work directly in the lab assembling prototype boards ...

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Electrical Lab information

What are Electrical Lab technicians?

Electrical Lab technicians are professionals who assist in the setup, maintenance, and operation of laboratory equipment used for testing electrical devices, circuits, and systems. They work in research and development labs, educational institutions, or manufacturing facilities, helping engineers and scientists conduct experiments and analyze data. Their tasks often include calibrating instruments, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Electrical Lab technicians play a crucial role in supporting innovation and maintaining quality standards in electrical engineering projects.

What is the difference between Electrical Lab vs Electrical Technician?

AspectElectrical LabElectrical Technician
CertificationsTypically requires electrical or electronics certifications, such as OSHA or technical diplomasRequires similar certifications, often including electrical licenses or technical training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily lab settings, testing and developing electrical components or systemsField and industrial settings, installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems
Industry UsageUsed in R&D, testing labs, and manufacturing environmentsCommon in construction, maintenance, and industrial facilities

Electrical Lab roles focus on testing, developing, and analyzing electrical systems in controlled environments, while Electrical Technicians are hands-on workers involved in installation, maintenance, and repair in various settings. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in work environment and job functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of electrical theory, circuit analysis, and hands-on experience with testing procedures, usually supported by a degree or diploma in electrical engineering or technology. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and specialized testing software, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training, is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, safe laboratory practices, and efficient collaboration with engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an electrical lab environment?

Professionals in an electrical lab often face challenges such as troubleshooting complex circuitry, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and keeping up with rapid technological advancements. The work typically requires strong attention to detail and the ability to collaborate with engineers, technicians, and other team members to test and develop new products or systems. Additionally, managing multiple projects or experiments simultaneously while maintaining accurate documentation can be demanding, but it's essential for quality control and compliance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Electrical Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Electrical Lab jobs in California? For Electrical Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Electrical Lab job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Senior Electrical Engineer I/II

Senior Electrical Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

$113K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER I/II

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Electrical Engineer I/II will participate in the development and test of avionics hardware for our spacecraft programs. You will work collaboratively with engineers of various disciplines and participate in all aspects of electrical hardware development, from requirements definition through design, prototyping, fabrication, testing, and production. As an engineer on the spacecraft development team, you will have frequent opportunities to test and operate your systems on-orbit. We're looking for people who are passionate about spacecraft electrical hardware design, with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Develop PCBA requirements in collaboration with other engineering disciplines
  • Schematic capture and PCB layout using Altium Designer
  • Circuit analysis, including power, tolerance, and reliability related
  • PCBA design verification testing and system integration testing
  • Production manufacturing support as needed

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Electrical Engineer I or Senior Electrical Engineer II level)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of electrical hardware design experience, including schematic capture and PCB layout
  • A strong background in analog electronics design
  • Proficiency performing circuit analyses in SPICE and Excel
  • U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER II:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering discipline
  • 8+ years of electrical hardware design experience, including schematic capture and PCB layout
  • A strong background in analog electronics design
  • Proficiency performing circuit analyses in SPICE and Excel
  • Proficiency with Altium Designer for schematic capture and layout of complex PCBs
  • Knowledge with processors, FPGAs, switch mode power supplies, communication interfaces and analog instrumentation
  • U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Master's or PhD in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with basic electronic lab equipment such as power supplies, oscilloscopes, DMMs, signal generators, soldering irons, etc.
  • Experience designing for space environments, including radiation impacts and mitigation
  • Experience designing for high-reliability aerospace applications
  • Experience designing rigid-flex PCBs and electromechanical design familiarity in general
  • Experience with FPGA design and embedded software development for ARM core processors
  • Demonstrated success working in a dynamic environment and ability to manage competing priorities

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
  • Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
  • Must be physically able to commute to buildings
  • Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$135,000—$189,000 USD

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.