Rocket Center Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 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.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN LEVEL I, II, III, SENIOR

The role of Mechanical Technician is key to enabling the build of Neutron facilities to support a timely test and first launch campaign of the Neutron launch vehicle. This role will be part of a tight-knit team of technicians that will lead the build, integration, test, operation, and maintenance of both the Neutron launch vehicle and Neutron ground system assets.

NOTE: This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level I or II, III, or Senior 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO TO DO:

• Play a crucial role in the fabrication of mechanical subsystems on the test and launch sites supporting Neutron, primarily as they relate to fluids system fabrication.
• Support and as needed lead daily activities for up to 3-5 technicians to meet vehicle integration schedule to support launch pad operations.
• Contribute to workflow/best practices for the launch pad operations
• Ensure tasks are completed on time and to quality standards
• Provide support on other operations as needed to support launch ops Integration
• Fit out, assembly and installation of launch pad systems including:
  • Fluid system initial build and commissioning.
  • As needed Precision cleaning of critical components
  • Troubleshooting mechanical issues as needed
• Work with greater Rocket Lab manufacturing and integration teams in Auckland, New Zealand; Long Beach, CA; and Stennis Space Center, MS.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN I:

• High School diploma or GED
• Experience working within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components
• Previous experience in the assembly of large structures and mechanisms
• Knowledge and skill in the use of hand, power and measurement tools used in mechanical construction

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II:

• High School diploma or GED
• 2+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components
• Previous experience in the assembly of large structures and mechanisms
• Knowledge and skill in the use of hand, power and measurement tools used in mechanical construction

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN III:

• High School diploma or GED
• 5+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components
• Previous experience in the assembly of large structures and mechanisms
• Knowledge and skill in the use of hand, power and measurement tools used in mechanical construction

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN:

• High School diploma or GED
• 8+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components
• Previous experience in the assembly of large structures and mechanisms
• Knowledge and skill in the use of hand, power and measurement tools used in mechanical construction

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Ability to read, understand and follow detailed schematics, drawings and instructions
• Experience using heavy equipment such as overhead cranes, forklifts and boom lifts
• Understanding of fluid systems - pneumatic, cryogenic and/or hydraulic
• Basic understanding of pressure, temperature and flow measurement instrumentation

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
• Able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted
• Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
• Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls.
• Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods - 8 hours min
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

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 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.