Lead Mechanical Technician – Space Launch Pad Systems

Rocket Lab; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Virginia is seeking a Lead, Mechanical Technician to build, integrate, test, and maintain launch pad systems for Neutron and Electron vehicles. You will lead up to 10 technicians, ensure 5S and SOP compliance, and work across cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes fluid and mechanical systems, high-pressure gas handling, welding, and cryogenic experience, with opportunities to mentor apprentices and drive preventative maintenance.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Manufacturing and integration of complex fluid systems.
• Reading and understanding of fluid system P&ID symbols.
• Reading and understanding of mechanical drawings.
• Tube bending and flaring.
• Operation of high-pressure gas systems.
• Hydraulic and pneumatic system operations and components.
• Communication and data management.
• Familiarity with LOTO best practices.

Responsibilities

• Participate in team of technicians dedicated to building a state of the launch pad for Neutron Launch Vehicle.
• Lead daily activities for up to 10 technicians to ensure pad systems are ready and maintained for operations.
• Contribute to workflow best practices and the implementation of SOPs for all aspects of mechanical and fluids systems build.
• Ensure tasks are completed on time and to quality standards.
• Provide support on other operations as needed to assist in overall Rocket Lab program success.
• Be a leader in 5S ensuring the team is following SOPs.
• Continued improvement of preventative maintenance and inspection procedures.
• Routine maintenance and upgrades of the launch pad systems and support tooling.
• Fit out, assembly and installation of launch pad systems to support launch operations including: precision cleaning of critical components.
• Install and removal of various fluid systems and components including tubing and piping systems.
• Troubleshooting mechanical and fluid systems issues as needed.
• Work with greater Rocket Lab manufacturing and integration teams for vehicle integration, testing and preparation for launch ops.
• Work with greater Rocket Lab manufacturing and integration teams in Auckland, New Zealand; Long Beach, CA; and Stennis Space Center, MS.

Skills

Experience 12+ yrs

Fluid systems

P&ID symbols

Mechanical drawings

Tube bending

High-pressure gas

Hydraulic/pneumatic

LOTO knowledge

Communication/data mgmt

Job description

Rocket Lab in Virginia is seeking a Lead, Mechanical Technician to build, integrate, test, and maintain launch pad systems for Neutron and Electron vehicles. You will lead up to 10 technicians, ensure 5S and SOP compliance, and work across cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes fluid and mechanical systems, high-pressure gas handling, welding, and cryogenic experience, with opportunities to mentor apprentices and drive preventative maintenance.