Composite Rocket Build Technician I-IV

Rocket Lab; Middle River (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab seeks Composite Rocket Build Technicians I-IV to work at its Space Structures Complex in Middle River, MD. The role involves the assembly and production of composite components for the Neutron Launch Vehicle, offering hands-on experience in a cutting-edge aerospace environment. Ideal candidates will have relevant experience in lamination or composite work, certification in necessary areas, and a dedication to safety and precision.

Benefits

Top tier medical HMO, PPO & company-sponsored medical HSA plan

Dental and vision coverage

3 weeks paid vacation

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

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Qualifications

• 2+ years in composite or lamination experience, technical repair or similar.
• Familiar with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools.
• Certification in composite work centers preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assemble composite rocket structures, including bonding and fastener applications.
• Vacuum bag processing, bonding, and oven/autoclave curing.
• Integration of mechanical hardware and routine maintenance tasks.

Skills

Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic tools

Technical repair

Mechanical maintenance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

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.

Note: We are currently seeking Composite Rocket Build Technicians levels I-IV for future opportunities at our Space Structures Complex in Middle River MD.

Composite Rocket Build Technicians will be based out of Rocket Lab's newest Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River, MD. The Composite Technicians will be responsible for the build and assembly of Composite components used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Assembly of composite rocket structures including setup, bonding and fastener applications
• Laminate assemblies by determining proper placement of composite materials
• Prepare parts for bagging, including placement of bleeders, thermocouples, probes and vacuum connections
• Vacuum bag processing, bonding, and oven/autoclave curing
• Making basic layouts on parts or assemblies in order to establish reference points and to check dimensions using calipers, micrometers, precision scales and torque wrenches
• Fitting of Honeycomb, foam and syntactic core
• Fitting and refurbishment of thermal protection systems.
• Integration of mechanical hardware
• Perform other standard composite and integration building techniques and practices as industries such as aerospace, space and other composite workplaces demand.
• You may be requested to work on other products for Rocket Lab in the local area or travel as required.

NOTE: This requisition can be hired at a Build Technician Level I, II, III or IV.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE BUILD TECH I:

• Minimum 2+ years of experience in composite or lamination experience, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be certified or able to become certified in two composite work centers
• Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE BUILD TECH II:

• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in composite or lamination experience, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be certified or able to become certified in two composite work centers
• Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE BUILD TECH III:

• Minimum 7+ years of experience in composite or lamination experience, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be certified or able to become certified in all composite work centers
• Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE BUILD TECH IV:

• Minimum 12+ years of experience in composite or lamination experience, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be certified or able to become certified in all composites work centers
• Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experienced in Core bond and Splicing
• Broad Industry manufacturing experience
• Aerospace industry experience
• Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge

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)

$22 - $40 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.

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 [e-mail]. 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.

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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 .

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