GSE Mechanical Technician II, III, Senior

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.

About the role

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the GSE Mechanical Technician is responsible for helping build and operate critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work in collaboration with a team of other technicians and engineers in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation, and test efforts.

Responsibilities

• Build facility systems of tubing, piping, and mechanical structures
• Use knowledge and skills to build mechanical systems that adhere to standards of integrity and cleanliness
• Directly support rocket engine hardware processing and checkout operations
• Operate high pressure gas and cryogenic systems using detailed work instructions and proper PPE
• Perform facility checkout and test operations safely while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
• Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
• Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation, and checkout of facility systems. Provide your expertise in system layout, system operations, and test processes

Requirements

This position can be hired as a Technician II, III, or Senior level.

Mechanical Technician II

• 2+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil & gas, or heavy industry
• High School diploma or GED
• Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems
• A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems

Mechanical Technician III

• 5+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil & gas, or heavy industry
• High School diploma or GED
• Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems
• A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems

Senior Mechanical Technician

• 8+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil & gas, or heavy industry
• High School diploma or GED
• Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems
• A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating and/or building rocket engine test stands or large industrial complexes
• Knowledge of broad industry processes for pressure systems and cleanliness (e.g., NASA, US Air Force, Department of Defense, ASME, or other regulatory agency)
• Post-secondary education that might include technical degrees or licenses (A&P or similar)
• Experience with rocket engines or launch vehicles or similar aerospace hardware
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
• Knowledge of different valve types, fitting and flange types, materials of construction
• Ability to troubleshoot systems and collaborate to develop corrective work instructions
• Basic computer skills in MS Office, email, collaborative networks like JIRA or CONFLUENCE
• Demonstrated experience working with various trade disciplines, fabricators, and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution

Work Environment

• This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work
• Occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas

About Rocket Lab

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.

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.