Pad Technician @ Rocket Lab USA

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!

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!

PAD TECHNICIAN - MECHANICAL

Based out of Rocket Lab’s new launch complex in Wallops Island, VA the Pad Technician - Mechanical is key to enabling LC-2 in delivering launches at the highest rate. With a focus on mechanical systems, you will be assisting a tight-knit team of technicians to build, integrate, test, operate and maintain critical launch systems and process launch vehicles.

*This role requires 6 months of initial training on site at our facility in New Zealand.

*This role requires up to 25% international travel to New Zealand based on launch schedule requirements.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Fit-out, assembly & installation of launch pad systems such as heavy engineering structures, mechanisms, fluid lines and associated components, electrical and control hardware and RF equipment.
Preventative maintenance and inspection procedures
Pressure and leak testing of fluid systems
Precision cleaning of critical components
Troubleshooting mechanical issues on launch pad system
Support activities during launch –pad and vehicle integration and checkouts
Conduct routine maintenance and upgrades of the launch systems

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport
2+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment
Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components
Previous experience in the assembly of large structures and mechanisms
The ability to work on site in New Zealand for the first six months of employment
The ability to travel to New Zealand per launch schedule requirements up to 25%, ongoing for duration of the role.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with launch campaigns
Experience using heavy equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts
Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
Understanding of fluid systems - pneumatic, cryogenic and/or hydraulics preferred
Basic understanding of pressure, temperature and flow measurement instrumentation
Ability to read, understand and follow detailed schematics, drawings and instructions

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
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 min 
Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

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 Biow 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.

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