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!
ABOUT THE TEAM
The Space Systems Propulsion team is responsible for developing and delivering qualified, flight-ready space vehicle propulsion systems. The team takes on cradle-to-grave ownership of systems and components. From mission requirement through detailed design, qualification, integration, and on orbit operation. Examples of past work include the Curie and HyperCurie engines, and the ESCAPADE spacecraft propulsion systems. Currently the team is working on the whole propulsion system for the Victus Haze mission. The team consists of development engineers and development technicians with a range of experience and skillsets, spanning systems engineering, design, build, test, and operations. The common thread across all members of the team is the ability to work hands-on with development, qualification, and flight hardware. Team members interface regularly with stakeholders across the company, including GNC, Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Flight Software, Thermal, Structures, and others.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO
As a Development Technician in the Space Systems Propulsion team, you will collaborate closely with engineers to build and test hardware. This hardware may be prototypes, tooling, test rigs, or even parts for flight. You will need to have good attention to detail and strong ability to work through problems and projects independently with minimal instructions. Unlike production roles, a lot of what you will do does not have step-by-step processes or standards so thinking ahead to avoid problems and learning on the job will be a daily occurrence. Most days on the job will be quite varied, with many different types of tasks coming up, but sometimes you will need to support production or perform repetitive work as well. You will need the attitude that ‘no task is too big or too small’, because sometimes we do give people big tasks like integrating a spacecraft to a launch vehicle before it gets launched to Mars. Given the nature of our work, there will be occasions where we have a deadline and overtime will be requested. If you enjoy working with a very passionate and talented group of people, this will be the role for you.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Strong attention to detail, technical curiosity, and eagerness to learn.
- Industry experience and NZQCF Level 6 trade certificate in Engineering, fitting and turning, welding, or electrical and instrumentation, or equivalent.
- Machining, welding, electrical, or mechanical assembly experience and aptitude.
- The ability to work effectively both in a team environment and independently.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills along with computer literacy.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Good understanding of aerospace standard of work and typical processes.
- R&D Engineering project experience or working in an environment with ambiguity that requires creative problem solving and high standard of work.
- A strong work ethic, able to self-task based on team goals, and always seeking more responsibility. Able and willing to work overtime if required.
- Experience with electronics and instrumentation.
- Able to understand and follow digital and printed manufacturing instructions and drawings.
ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:
- The opportunity to work on innovative and ground breaking technology
- An employee stock purchase program
- Access to world leading experts to develop your career
- Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks
- Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.
- Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
- Additional parental leave entitlements
- A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year
If the above sounds like you apply now!
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.
