Neutron Mechanical Assembly Technician

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 rockethas 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

Rocket Labs Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutrons structures and components to firing up its new Archimedes engines to setting up Neutrons launch pads and test sites across the United States joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

THE ROLE:

This is a development-focused mechanical systems role for someone who wants to use their engineering mindset daily. Youll receive engineering drawings and figure out how to build complex assemblies create custom tooling and solve technical challenges in real-time. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge rocket development before processes become standardizedideal for those who want to engineer solutions not just follow instructions.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Interpret engineering drawings and independently determine build strategies for new assemblies
• Construct large-scale structural components (thrust structures major assemblies) involving drilling riveting and precision mechanical work
• Fabricate custom tooling and fixtures using manual machining (lathe/mill) as needed
• Perform extended hours during critical build/test phases
• Travel regularly to US facilities (approximately 2 weeks every 6-8 weeks) for integration and testing support
• Proactively troubleshoot technical problems and propose solutions independently

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong mechanical assembly background (nuts/bolts fundamentals)
• Proven hands-on technical skills in mechanical systems
• Ability to work autonomously and think critically through build challenges

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Machining experience(lathe/mill operation for custom part fabrication)
• TIG welding skills
• Structural assembly background(large-scale drilling/riveting on aviation or similar structures)
• Basic electrical/wire harnessing exposure(able to terminate connectors follow wiring diagrams)
• Practical engineering graduates with strong hands-on workshop experience
• Ability to adapt quickly to design changes and maintain positive team morale through setbacks
• Proven success and experience as a Rocket Lab technician is strongly preferred.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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 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 hereITAR Regulations.