Materials Lab Technician II

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.

Responsibilities

• Prepares/tests/evaluates/certifies all metallurgical tests required per internal production, customer and/or specification requirements.
• Operates testing equipment such as (but not limited to) Instron tensile frames at cryogenic and elevated temperatures, metallography testing (grind, polish, mount, microscopy), XRF analysis, SEM analysis, and hardness testing.
• Checks test samples for dimensions using precision measuring equipment such as gages, calipers, scales, micrometers.
• Maintains lab database with complete lab test results and accuracy.
• Maintains a clean work environment (including assigned storage and cleaning duties) in full compliance with company standards, customer and government regulations.
• Participates and supports the internal & external audits and supports metallurgical audits.
• Ensures the company's commitment to maintain a safe workplace and to protect the environment through the establishment and support of Company policy and adherence to various government regulations.
• Program/run lab heat treat oven for test coupons and some production parts.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of metallurgical lab experience or related functions.
• A High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
• Demonstrated familiarity with drawings, testing specifications, hand tools, bandsaw, cutoff machine, etc.
• Experience testing carbon composite materials.

Benefits

• 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.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Discounted employee stock purchase program.
• Subsidized EV charging stations.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Onsite gym.
• Food and drinks.
• Other discounts.

Pay

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, 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.

Schedule

Flexible schedule to accommodate the demands of the job and the company's operations.

Qualifications

• 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.

Additional Requirements

• 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.