technician

Assembly Integration & Test Technician II/Senior full_time

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS 

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.   

SPACECRAFT ASSEMBLY, INTEGRATION & TEST TECHNICIAN II / SENIOR ASSEMBLY, INTEGRATION & TEST TECHNICIAN 

Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA the AIT Technician II/Senior AIT Technician will be trained on Rocket Lab systems and procedures in Electron Avionics Production while also supporting the space systems department to mature processes. The AIT Technician needs to be able to transverse both R&D and Manufacturing environments with ease and have high attention to detail in order to support rapid prototyping of Photon and Photon related satellite componentry.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Assembly Integration & Test Technician II or Senior Assembly Integration & Test Technician level)

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Perform development and production of Space System componentry and Satellites with minimal documentation and oversight.
  • Utilizing detailed knowledge of electronic and mechanical fabrication methods to assemble or perform rework. Components include Fluid Systems, Propulsion Systems, Reaction Wheels, Star trackers, Deep Space Radios, Magnetorquers, Flight Computers and Solar Panel Arrays.
  • Perform tests on prototyping hardware with minimal direction from engineers.
  • Manufacture and integrate space standard harnesses.
  • Mechanically integrate space system components and associated hardware while adhering to all technical and environmental processes
  • Perform system level faultfinding activities on an integrated satellite. For example, continuity checks, functional checks, live voltage measurements, and leak tests.  
  • Author new or revised assembly work procedures and documentation as required and ensure they are aligned with industry standards and practices.
  • Follow department policy for As-built accuracy, Non-conformance and quality process while in the manufacturing environment.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN AIT TECHNICAN II:  

  • 5+ years of experience in the Aerospace industry.
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Experience in the development and production of space systems or satellite componentry
  • Need to have an understanding of electromechanical assembly, tooling, test, and quality techniques.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR AIT TECHNICAN:  

  • 8+ years of experience in the Aerospace industry.
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Experience in the development and production of space systems or satellite componentry
  • Need to have an understanding of electromechanical assembly, tooling, test, and quality techniques.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Experience using electronic testing equipment including but not limited to oscilloscopes, power supplies, function generators, network analyzer and multimeters.
  • Familiar with ISO 9000 or AS9100 requirements
  • Experience with adhering to and developing industry standard environments (ESD safe zones and clean room)
  • Familiar with IPC/WHMA-A-620C and/or AC 43.13
  • Experience performing accurate measurements and quality inspections using calibrated tools such as calipers or micrometers.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

  • Must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time 
  • Must be comfortable working in a production environment with extensive use of hazardous chemicals such as acids, alkalis, and solvents 
  • Must be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted. 
  • Must be able to wear appropriate PPE for lab and electro-chemical manufacturing environment 
  • Must be comfortable with climbing up and down ladders, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, carrying, crawling, and maneuvering in tight spaces 
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed 

Level and 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 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, childcare concierge, 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.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$25—$40 USD

 

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

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.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

 

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.

 

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