Apprentice Production Technician

Rocket Lab; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking motivated individuals to support the production of K2 Mega-class satellites. The role includes mechanical and electro-mechanical assembly, requiring a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Candidates with hands-on experience will thrive in a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth.

Benefits

Unlimited paid time off

Medical/dental/vision coverage

Life insurance

Paid parental leave

Qualifications

• 1+ years of work experience in any hands-on industry.
• Proficiency with computers and MS Office.
• Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Support production line and test lab equipment setup and maintenance.
• Assist in machine shop operations including running equipment.
• Support engineering on development operations including prototyping and testing.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Strong work ethic

Initiative

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Basic mechanical tools

Electrical hardware

Job description

K2 Space is building large, high-powered spacecraft for the next generation of space development. Backed by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Altimeter Capital, and many others ($180M raised to date), we intend to mass produce the highest-powered satellite platforms ever built for missions across LEO to Deep Space.

The rise of launch vehicles like Falcon 9 and Starship enables the move from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance. We believe this new era requires spacecraft with a fundamentally different design in order to fully utilize the massive rockets coming to market.

We’re a team that believes the future lies in building large, high-powered satellites that can handle multiple orbits. This is a necessity if we ever want to develop the solar system, and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization.

If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a groundbreaking Series B space startup, we’d love for you to apply.

The Role

This role will support the production team in manufacturing and development of the K2 Mega-class satellite and future generations of the spacecraft. You will support mechanical and electro-mechanical component assemblies while working with and learning from experienced aerospace technicians and engineers. The ideal candidate will have a willingness to learn, have a positive attitude, love working with their hands, and building something from the ground up.

Responsibilities

• Support production line and test lab equipment setup, maintenance, and modifications

• Support production line equipment fabrication and assembly

• Assist in machine shop operations including running equipment such as mills, drill press, grinders, saws, and forklifts

• Support setup of the production line areas including assembly of new equipment, workbenches, storage racks, etc.

• Support engineering and senior technicians on development operations including prototyping, process development, and testing of new satellite components

• Assist with hardware movements and lifting operations in multiple sites

• Practice 5S principles of organizing and sustaining an efficient and presentable workspace

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• 1+ years of work experience in any hands-on industry

• Proficiency with computers and ability to use MS Office

• Strong willingness to learn and grow

• A strong work ethic, sense of initiative, and commitment to the team

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with basic mechanical tools and equipment

• Familiarity with electrical hardware

• Experience working in a development or production environment

• Strong communication skills with ability to provide feedback to engineering teams to improve tooling processes and part design

• Ablility to stay organized with strong attention to detail

Additional Requirements

• Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed

• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces

• Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs. unassisted

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $23 – $28 + equity in the company

• Compensation will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level

• Comprehensive benefits package including unlimited paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

If you don’t meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!

If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

Export Compliance

As defined in the ITAR, “U.S. Persons” include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a “U.S. Person.”

The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.

Equal Opportunity

K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.