Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

MANUFACTURING

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.

AVIONICS MANUFACTURING TECHNICIAN II/SENIOR

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, California the Avionics Manufacturing Technician II/Senior is responsible for building and testing components and electrical assemblies of the Rutherford rocket engine - an electric propellant pump system. Avionics Manufacturing Technicians are responsible for a broad range of responsibilities including soldering, wire harnessing, PCB assembly, functional testing, operating thermal chambers, creative ideas, and offer continuous improvement recommendations.

You will support senior leadership and the Avionics Production organization with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Follow work instructions and offer recommendations for continuous improvement.
Speak openly and elevate concerns / recommendations to Leading Hand.
Think creatively, and question status quo.
Actively contribute to local 5S work center.
Identify and highlight abnormalities.
Complete assigned special projects and scheduled jobs.

(This position can be hired as an Avionics Manufacturing Technician II or Senior Avionics Manufacturing Technician)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS AN AVIONICS MANUFACTURING TECHNICIAN II:

5+ years of experience with electrical assemblies and components
High School diploma or GED
PCB assembly experience
Soldering and/or harnessing of small electrical assemblies
Use of common tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, spanners, soldering irons

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A SENIOR AVIONICS MANUFACTURING TECHNICIAN

8+ years of experience with electrical assemblies and components
High School diploma or GED
PCB assembly experience
Soldering and/or harnessing of small electrical assemblies
Use of common tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, spanners, soldering irons

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Inspect PCB and wiring assemblies meet customer workmanship standards.
Use of specialist tools and equipment; wire strippers, torque drivers, milliohmmeter, multimeter, DC power supply, etc.
Experience testing components, sub-assemblies, and operating test equipment
Operate thermal chambers, functional test equipment, and perform software driven tests.
Knowledge of standard industry Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) policy
Manufacture electronic components to NASA workmanship standards using either IPC-J-STD-001 or IPC-610
Manufacture electrical harnesses to IPC-620 standards.
Experience assembling per manufacturing instructions and drawings.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time
Must be comfortable working in a production environment with extensive use of hazardous chemicals such as acids, alkalis, and solvents
Must be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted.
Must be able to wear appropriate PPE for lab and electro-chemical manufacturing environment
Must be comfortable with climbing up and down ladders, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, carrying, crawling, and maneuvering in tight spaces
Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed

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, childcare concierge, 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)

$25—$40 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 Biow 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.