Vehicle Integration 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.

Responsibilities

• Install fluids, avionics, and all other components onto the launch vehicle along with troubleshooting and completing functional tests of the fully integrated launch vehicle
• Engage in hands-on work with tools, equipment, and facilities to build, launch, or test Rocket Lab launch vehicles or components
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team to meet production and launch schedules
• Adhere to high precision standards in assembly tasks, including crimping, soldering, and harness termination
• Conduct inspections to ensure components and assemblies meet stringent workmanship standards
• Actively contribute to setting up local 5S work centers
• Manage multiple tasks and pivot onto exciting high-priority tasks

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED
• Experience in the assembly and testing in any of the following: Fluids component integration/fabrication, Avionics component integration/fabrication, Vehicle component integration, Systems testing and troubleshooting

Qualifications

• VINTECH I: 0-2 years of relevant industry experience
• VINTECH II: 2-5 years of relevant industry experience
• VINTECH III: 5-8 years of relevant industry experience
• VINTECH IV: 8+ years of relevant industry experience

Skills

• Maintenance skills including: troubleshooting, precision cleaning, components disassembly/assembly, system testing, and others
• Comfortable with necessary equipment to perform job duties including: Forklift, telehandler, boom lift, scissor lift, power tools, torque wrenches and others
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to work to exacting standards
• Good level of eyesight for inspecting assemblies and manufacturing components to high workmanship standards
• Able to work effectively in both team environments and independently
• Capable of reading, understanding, and following manufacturing instructions and drawings
• High work ethic with a proactive approach; willing to take on more responsibility and work long hours if required
• Initiative and ability to remain calm under pressure
• Computer literate, comfortable using smartphones and tablets
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhere to all safety regulations and protocols
• Attend group meetings and provide ideas on how to overcome challenges through alternative methods
• Continuously seek opportunities for process improvements and cost-saving measures

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

Pay

Base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base pay range (MD Only): $28—$50 USD

Schedule

Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery

Additional Requirements

• Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours)
• 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

Important Information

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: 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. Learn more about ITAR here.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.