Welder Fabricator II

About the Role

The Fabrication Technician II is a critical team member responsible for leading fabrication processes, ensuring high-quality outputs, and optimizing production efficiency. This role involves working with various materials, tools, and technologies to create custom parts and components as per specifications, including painting, custom fabrication work, and supporting all aspects of vehicle build, integration, and GSE (Ground Support Equipment) repair and fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute fabrication tasks, including cutting, welding, machining, painting, and assembling materials and components.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to ensure accurate production.
• Operate and maintain fabrication machinery and equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Perform custom fabrication work, tailoring projects to specific requirements and customer needs.
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, and other technicians to optimize fabrication processes and solve technical issues.
• Support the repair and fabrication of GSE (Ground Support Equipment), ensuring functionality and reliability.
• Support all aspects of vehicle build, integration, and GSE.
• Join other manufacturing teams on an as-needed basis.
• Support mechanical assembly, vehicle integration, and composites when needed.
• Inspect finished products for quality and adherence to specifications, making adjustments as necessary.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhering 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.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree or certification in fabrication or related field preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in a fabrication or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in operating fabrication tools and machinery, including CNC machines, welding equipment, saws, manual mills and lathes, and various shop tools (e.g., sanders, cutters, bandsaws, table saws).

Preferred Qualifications

• A&P Certification (Airframe and Powerplant).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Additional Requirements

• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required.
• Able to lift up to 25lbs unassisted.
• Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
• 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 – 8 hours minimum.
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces.

The expected salary range for this position is $23 USD - $30 USD. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, and expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

About Neutron

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.