Composite Technician - all levels

About The Role

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 to 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.

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.

Responsibilities

• Assembly of structures including setup, bonding and fastener applications
• Laminate assemblies by determining proper placement of composite materials
• Prepare parts for bagging, including placement of bleeders, thermocouples, probes and vacuum connections
• Vacuum bag processing, bonding, and oven/autoclave curing
• Fitting of Honeycomb, foam and syntactic core
• Fitting and refurbishment of thermal protection systems
• Integration of mechanical hardware
• Perform other standard composite and integration building techniques and practices as industries such as aerospace, space and other composite workplaces demand

Requirements

• Knowledge of or experience in composite or lamination experience OR 2+ years of military equipment maintenance experience OR 2+ years of experience in electronics, mechanical troubleshooting, installation, repair of manufacturing equipment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Basic Math Skills
• Knowledge of the following tool use (or if no previous experience, open to training on): Pneumatic tools, Caliper, Micrometers, Hand tools, Power tools, Precision measurement instruments
• Familiarity working with and conforming to drilling, laminating, and assembly prints
• Experience working with material data sheets
• Shop organization and cleanliness
• Use of personal protective equipment

Qualifications

• For Composite Tech I-SENIOR: Minimum 8+ years of experience in composite or lamination experience OR 13+ years of military equipment maintenance experience OR 13+ years of experience in electronics, mechanical troubleshooting, installation, repair of manufacturing equipment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be certified or able to become certified in all composites work centers
• Intermediate Math Skills
• Expert knowledge of the following tool use and demonstrated capability to apply them to achieve complex composite assemblies: Pneumatic tools, Caliper, Micrometers, Hand tools, Power tools, Precision measurement instruments
• Familiarity working with and conforming to drilling, laminating, and assembly prints
• Experience working with material data sheets
• Shop organization and cleanliness
• Use of personal protective equipment

Benefits

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.

Pay

Base Pay Range (MD Only) $22—$55 USD

Schedule

Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, awkward positions, and tight areas as needed Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and stooping Use hands with precision to handle, control, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs. Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require