Materials Test Technician III - Aerospace Composites

Rocketlab

Auckland

On-site

NZD 55,000 - 90,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland, NZ, is seeking a Technician III – Materials Development and Testing to prepare, test, and report on composite and metallic specimens. You will ensure adherence to ASTM and other standards and support product qualification and R&D programs.

The role requires 1+ year lab experience, familiarity with testing machines and measurement tools, and a strong eye for detail. You will collaborate across teams and contribute to the advancement of our space hardware.

Qualifications

Associate degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related technical field.
High school diploma/equivalent plus 2+ years relevant laboratory experience.
Minimum 1 year experience in materials testing laboratory environment.
Demonstrated experience with composite materials preparation and testing.
Proficiency with universal testing machines and data acquisition systems.
Experience with precision measurement instruments.
Familiarity with MIL-Handbook 17 Vol 1 Polymer Matrix Composites Guidelines for Characterization of Structural Materials.
Understanding of ASTM test standards (D3039, D3410, D790, E8, etc.).
Knowledge of composite material structures and failure modes.
Familiarity with metallic material properties and behavior.
Basic understanding of mechanics of materials and stress-strain relationships.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel for data analysis.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
Basic understanding of statistics for reviewing and reporting test results.
Ability to review and analyse testing results from external laboratories.
High attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong manual dexterity for specimen handling and preparation.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Effective written and verbal communication.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Problem-solving aptitude and analytical thinking
Commitment to quality and continuous improvement

Responsibilities

Prepare composite and metallic test specimens according to ASTM standards including D3039, D3410, D790, D7078, E8, E9, and similar specifications.
Perform precision cutting, machining, and grinding operations using diamond saws, CNC mills, and surface preparation equipment.
Manufacture test articles of composites, textiles, and insulation assemblies for mechanical and thermal testing.
Apply strain gauges, extensometers, and other instrumentation to specimens as required.
Integrate thermocouples, RTDs, and instrumentation into test articles for testing of metallic, composite, and polymeric materials.
Bond composite end tabs or metal fixtures, and specimens (lap shear, fracture toughness) using appropriate adhesives and curing procedures.
Measure and verify specimen dimensions using calipers, micrometers, and optical measurement systems.
Document specimen geometry, fiber orientation, batch numbers, and preparation procedures.
Maintain specimen identification and traceability throughout preparation process.
Condition specimens in environmental chambers per test specification requirements.
Inspect specimens for defects, voids, or damage that could affect test validity.