Lead Mechanical Technician at Rocket Lab Corporation

Middle River, Maryland, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

28 Jan, 26

Salary

48.08

Posted On

30 Oct, 25

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Mechanical Assembly, Technical Repair, Leadership, Team Coordination, Capacity Planning, Safety Compliance, Preventive Maintenance, Mechanical Integration, Structural Assembly, Training, Quality Improvement, Tool Familiarity, Problem Solving, Hands-On Work, Mentoring, Organization

Industry

Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing

Description

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! LEAD MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN The Lead Mechanical Technician is responsible for leading the build and assembly of structures and components used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure, and actively participates in hands-on work as part of this working lead role. This will be a highly influential position with daily responsibility for setting job assignments to meet workflow demands and to drive daily progress. The Lead Mechanical Technician will be a key stakeholder in mentoring and training the team. In this role you must be an inspiring leader and set standards for the team but also be ready to work with your hands in the field. The Lead Mechanical technician is focused on, and leads a team which is focused on: large structural assemblies, smaller integrated subassemblies, mechanical integration activities, and retrofits requiring mechanical skills. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Lead a team of highly qualified mechanical technicians to ensure clarity and accountability of responsibilities at our Space Structures Complex. Coordinate build activities and progress through daily leadership meetings focusing on daily tactical execution and ensuring maximum effectiveness from the team. Track output of the team against delivery objectives as well as manage capacity planning and schedule of the team Drive and encourage improvement projects and work instruction feedback that decrease touch-time, improve quality, or reduce safety risk Drive basic preventive maintenance across the facility Accountable for the team training and conformance to health and safety policies and procedures, including use of proper PPE Building mechanical structures and related components Watch the hardware you build evolve into a completed Rocket and go to space. Uphold shop cleanliness and organization Integration of Mechanical Hardware You may be requested to work on other products for Rocket Lab in the local area or travel as required. YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LEAD MECHANICAL TECH: 6+ years of experience in mechanical assembly or technical repair. High School Diploma or GED Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools THESE QUALIFICATION WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification 12+ years experience in new space or aerospace industry Experience with mechanical assembly and disassembly. Rivetting, click-bonds, reading torque specs, reading 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 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, and free snacks/drinks onsite. 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 (MD Only) $38.46—$48.08 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.

Responsibilities

The Lead Mechanical Technician is responsible for leading the build and assembly of structures and components for the Neutron Launch Vehicle. This role includes mentoring the team, coordinating build activities, and ensuring safety and quality standards are met.