Vehicle Integration Technician

About The Role

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).

VEHICLE INTEGRATION TECHNICIAN

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

Please note:

• This role requires international travel to our facility in New Zealand for training.
• This role requires ability to obtain a DOD Top Secret Clearance.
• This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level II or III.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Assembly and installation of avionic and mechanical components onto the Electron Launch Vehicle
• Assembly of test equipment and other custom tooling as required
• Functional testing of components and systems using specific test equipment and software driven tests
• Use common hand tools – screwdrivers, pliers, spanners, torque drivers, milliohm meter, multimeter, oscilloscope, DC power supply etc
• Assisting engineering team in fault-finding systems
• Develop fit-out procedures and documentation

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A TECHNICIAN II:

• Current U.S. Passport or be 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 in test, build and assembly of electrical and mechanical systems and components

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A TECHNICIAN III:

• Current U.S. Passport or be 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 in test, build and assembly of electrical and mechanical systems and components

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Precision avionics and mechanical assembly
• Experienced or trained with lean methodologies and 5S
• Comfortable working to exacting standards, including cleanliness for oxygen service
• Understanding of standard industry ESD
• Ability to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings

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.

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 [email protected] 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.