IQC Inspector I/II

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 scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate-change mitigation, national security, and new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered over 230 satellites to orbit. We are also developing Neutron, a medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems division designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

About the Role

Based at Rocket Lab’s site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the IQC Inspector will execute aerospace inspections, supporting the Quality Inspector Supervisor and Space Systems organization. In this role, you will inspect mechanical and electrical components for spacecraft assemblies, operate precision tools like CMMs and micrometers, and assemble flight mechanisms using production drawings. This position can be hired at the IQC Inspector I or IQC Inspector II level.

Responsibilities

• Inspect mechanical and electrical components before use in traceable spacecraft assemblies.
• Use and maintain Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM), calipers, micrometers, gages, comparators, hardness testers, and other common mechanical inspection tools.
• Create Standard Operating Procedures for specific mechanical parts.
• Communicate findings through written standardized documentation and verbal discussion.
• Assemble space flight mechanisms following written production drawings and procedures.
• Generate ideas for potential process improvements.
• Handle shipping and receiving of components according to standard company procedures.

Requirements

IQC Inspector I

• High school diploma or GED.
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with common aerospace inspection tools (e.g., calipers, multimeters, micrometers, gages, comparators).
• Familiarity with common aerospace assembly tools (e.g., torque wrenches, force gages, load cells, scales).

IQC Inspector II

• 2+ years of quality inspection experience in a highly regulated production or manufacturing environment.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with common aerospace inspection tools (e.g., calipers, multimeters, micrometers, gages, comparators).
• Familiarity with common aerospace assembly tools (e.g., torque wrenches, force gages, load cells, scales).

Preferred Qualifications

• 8+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry.
• Capacity to comply with U.S. export control laws.
• Direct inspection or design experience with parts complying to the ASME Y14.5 standard.
• Familiarity with use of CMM.
• Strong technical and mechanical capability.
• Familiarity with simple electrical schematics and components.
• Attention to detail necessary to verify inspected components meet required specifications.
• Integrity and focus to follow and execute procedures.
• Familiarity with common geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) practices.
• Passion for doing excellent work with mechanisms and physical assemblies.
• Mechanically inclined and able to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Self-motivated mindset.
• Effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Desire to work in a small-company environment.

Additional Requirements

• Standing for long periods, climbing ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required.
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Must be comfortable working in tight spaces and climbing ladders.
• Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods (minimum 8 hours).
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces.

Pay

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $18 USD – $27 USD. Level and base salary will be determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Top-tier medical HMO, PPO, and a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts.
• Paid parental leave.
• Disability insurance and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Discounted employee stock purchase program.
• Flexible schedule.
• Free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week.
• Free snacks and drinks.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Work Environment

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and grit. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and focus on delivering results.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or Commerce.