Mechanical Technician III

About the role

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems. The Neutron program is a medium‑lift, highly reusable launch vehicle designed for mega‑constellations, high‑assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. The Mechanical Technician Level III will enable the build of Neutron facilities, supporting test and first‑launch campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate mechanical subsystems on test and launch sites, focusing on fluid‑system fabrication.
• Support and, as needed, lead daily activities for 3‑5 technicians to meet vehicle integration schedules for launch‑pad operations.
• Contribute to workflow and best‑practice development for launch‑pad operations.
• Ensure tasks are completed on time and to quality standards.
• Provide additional operational support as required for launch operations.
• Fit‑out, assemble, and install launch‑pad systems, including initial build and commissioning of fluid systems.
• Perform precision cleaning of critical components.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues as they arise.
• Collaborate with Rocket Lab manufacturing and integration teams in Auckland (NZ), Long Beach (CA), and Stennis Space Center (MS).

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED.
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace, industrial, or a related field.
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, and/or fluid components.
• Previous experience assembling large structures and mechanisms.
• Proficiency with hand, power, and measurement tools used in mechanical construction.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow detailed schematics, drawings, and instructions (preferred).
• Experience operating heavy equipment such as overhead cranes, forklifts, and boom lifts (preferred).
• Understanding of fluid systems—pneumatic, cryogenic, and/or hydraulic (preferred).
• Basic knowledge of pressure, temperature, and flow measurement instrumentation (preferred).

Additional Requirements

• Stand and walk for an 8‑hour shift on various work surfaces.
• Climb ladders and work at elevated heights, in 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 tools, instruments, and equipment.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lb.
• Work in varied environments (production floors, equipment areas, field locations) with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require.

Pay

Base Pay Range (Virginia only): $26 USD – $39 USD per hour. Total compensation may include company stock, cash incentives, and participation in the Employee Stock Purchase Program.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan options.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Paid parental leave.
• Discounts and additional employee perks.

Schedule

Typical shift is 8 + hours; flexibility is required to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts based on operational needs.