Senior Quality Inspector @ Rocket Lab USA

Aerospace Engineering (1)

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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 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.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

SENIOR QUALITY INSPECTOR

Based on-site at Rocket Lab in our Middle River, MD facility, we are looking for is an experienced inspector with a high level of attention to detail to detect anything related to the product that does not meet product standards. Someone who embraces challenges and has clear communication skills. If you have a passion for aerospace and a track record of maintaining the highest quality standards in a fast-paced environment, you might be the Quality Inspector we are searching for.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

Perform complex mechanical inspections for purchased parts and assemblies.
Perform work in process quality inspections and final sign-off inspections to release product for flight.
Follow and create detailed work instructions if needed for receiving inspection for components/assemblies.
Highlight all concerns directly back to the engineering, quality and production team by thoroughly documenting issues and non-conformances in accordance with Rocket Lab systems and procedures in our internal quality monitoring systems (Issue tracking system) and Manufacturing execution system (MES) and/or ERP as applicable.
Follow up on calibration tracking and compliance to tool calibration system.
Embody a Built in Quality philosophy, consistently detecting non-conformances (Don’t accept a Defect – Don’t Pass a Defect) and preventing escapes to downstream customers.
Work with manufacturing and quality engineers and participate in root cause investigations and implementation of appropriate containment and corrective actions.
 Provide detailed feedback for production improvements to ensure high quality standards are maintained.
Collaborate with engineering and management to improve work instructions and identify critical inspection points in the process.
Assist in the identification of failure modes through participation in PFMEAs and contribute ideas to eliminate the potential for future failures and/or participate to drive actions to completion.
Drive reliable data collection to help with statistical understanding of our products.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

8+ years of experience in aerospace or complex manufacturing and quality environment. 
Deep understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and reading blueprints.
Experience with composites and mechanical assemblies including lamination, bonding, drilling, fastening, etc.
Ability to operate a laser scanner

 THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Inspection experience with aerospace propulsion components & assemblies. 
Experience working with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. 
Experience with Hexagon Laser Scanners using Hexagon Inspire software
NDT experience using ultrasonic testing.
Understanding of theory of measurement, limitations of metrology systems, and ability to clearly communicate.
High level of experience using hand measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, feeler gauges, pine gauges, thread gauges, surface roughness measurement, etc. 
Experience in using measurement instruments like comparators.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel
Excellent communication skills, capable of working collaboratively within the organization and external suppliers.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
Repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position.
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 min 
Must be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted.

#RL1

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, 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)

$30—$45 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 [email protected].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.

Senior Quality Inspector

Rocket Lab USA

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