Ion Propulsion Test & Production Specialist

Rocket Lab Corp.; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland seeks an Ion Propulsion Production & Test Technician to operate and maintain vacuum chambers used for full system Ion Propulsion Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP). You will support Thruster and Power Processing Unit (PPU) assembly and sub‑system testing, ensuring adherence to strict specifications with precision tools.

You will execute test procedures, document results, troubleshoot issues with engineering teams, and perform routine maintenance on vacuum systems and

Qualifications

• Trade or degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace or related field.
• 4+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Experience with operation of mechanical, electrical and automated test equipment.
• Familiarity with thermal systems, vacuum pumps, and pressure measurement.
• Precision mechanical and electrical assembly experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex electro‑mechanical systems.
• Commitment to cleanliness for vacuum environments.
• Understanding of standard industry ESD policy.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain vacuum chambers for production and testing of ion propulsion systems.
• Accurately execute test procedures and document results.
• Report anomalies to engineering teams.
• Troubleshoot test failures with cross‑functional teams to resolve root causes.
• Perform preventative maintenance and manage consumables inventory.
• Assemble and test thruster and sub‑system hardware including PPUs.
• Support engineering in troubleshooting build issues and training team members.

Skills

4+ years experience

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical aptitude

Precision assembly

ESD policy knowledge

Education

Trade or degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace

Tools

Vacuum systems

Test equipment

High-voltage electronics

Data acquisition systems

Job description

Rocket Lab in Auckland seeks an Ion Propulsion Production & Test Technician to operate and maintain vacuum chambers used for full system Ion Propulsion Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP). You will support Thruster and Power Processing Unit (PPU) assembly and sub‑system testing, ensuring adherence to strict specifications with precision tools.

You will execute test procedures, document results, troubleshoot issues with engineering teams, and perform routine maintenance on vacuum systems and