What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Trainer position at Rocket Lab USA?
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 rockethas 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 solutionleveragingRocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. Ifyou'reinterested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!
LEAD TRAINER
The Lead Technician Trainer will be based out of Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex in Middle River MD. The Lead Technician Trainer develops and delivers hands-on training to ensure technicians are proficient in aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and repair processes while meeting safety, quality, and regulatory standards. This role partners with engineering, quality, and production teams to assess skills, address process gaps, and promote continuous improvement on the shop floor.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TOTODO:
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Develop and deliver training programs for aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and repair processes
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Train personnel on aerospace-grade materials, including prepregs, resins, fibers, core materials, and adhesives
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Ensure training emphasizes compliance with aerospace standards, engineering drawings, and specifications (e.g., FAA, AS9100)
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Create andmaintainwork instructions, visual aids, and training documentation aligned with aerospace quality requirements
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Evaluate technicianproficiencythrough practical assessments, on-the-job observations, and skills certifications
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Support onboarding, recurrent training, and cross-training of composite technicians
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Collaborate with engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to address defects, rework, and process improvements
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Troubleshoot composite manufacturing issues and incorporate lessons learned into training content
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Promote a strong culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement on the production floor
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
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High School Diplomaand 10 years ofexperienceinmanufacturingorrelated industry
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Experience in training, developing and implementing learning strategies
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Experience training and mentoring newer technicians on industry standards and specific processes
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Expert knowledge of the following tool use and demonstrated capability to apply them to achieve complex composite assemblies:Pneumatic tools, Calipers, Micrometers, Hand tools, Power tools, and Precision measurement instruments
- Familiarity working with and conforming to drilling, laminating, and assembly prints
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Experience working with material data sheets
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
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Broad Industry manufacturing experience frompreviousappointments
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Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge
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Resin infusion knowledge
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Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing complex projects within a rapidly evolving environment.
- Intermediate Math Skills
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
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Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
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Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers,operatecomputer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
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Must be physically able to commute to buildings
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Occasional exposure to dust,fumesand moderate levels of noise.
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Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadline
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, and free snacks/drinks onsite.
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.
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 hereITAR Regulations.
Rocket Lab USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, employment with Rocket Lab USA is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Salary : $35