Launch Technician, Mechanical

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.

ELECTRON

The Electron rocket is a small, expendable launch vehicle developed by Rocket Lab, an American aerospace manufacturer with a wholly-owned New Zealand subsidiary. Designed to provide cost-effective access to space for small satellites, the Electron is specifically tailored for launching lightweight payloads, such as CubeSats and small scientific instruments, into low Earth orbit (LEO).

LAUNCH TECHNICIAN - MECHANICAL

Based out of Rocket Lab's new launch complex in Wallops Island, VA the Launch Technician - Mechanical is key to enabling LC-2 in delivering launches at the highest rate. With a focus on mechanical systems, you will be assisting a tight-knit team of technicians to build, integrate, test, operate and maintain critical launch systems and process launch vehicles.

Please note:

*This role requires International travel for training.*

*This role requires the ability to obtain a top secret clearance*

*This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level II or III*

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Fit-out, assembly & installation of launch pad systems such as heavy engineering structures, mechanisms, fluid lines and associated components, electrical and control hardware and RF equipment.
• Preventative maintenance and inspection procedures
• Pressure and leak testing of fluid systems
• Precision cleaning of critical components
• Troubleshooting mechanical issues on launch pad system
• Support activities during launch –pad and vehicle integration and checkouts
• Conduct routine maintenance and upgrades of the launch systems

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LAUNCH TECHNICIAN II:

• Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport
• 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

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LAUNCH TECHNICIAN III:

• Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport
• 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

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with launch campaigns
• Experience using heavy equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Understanding of fluid systems - pneumatic, cryogenic and/or hydraulics preferred
• Basic understanding of pressure, temperature and flow measurement instrumentation
• Ability to read, understand and follow detailed schematics, drawings and instructions
• Experience with vehicle integration
• Installing mechanical and avionics components per drawings and work instructions.

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 [Link available when viewing the job].

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 [Link available when viewing the job]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 [Link available when viewing the job]