Propulsion Test Technician III - A Shift

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 85,962,240 - 114,616,320; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted stock purchase program

Onsite gym

Food and drinks

Other discounts

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA is seeking a Propulsion Test Technician III - A Shift based at our Long Beach, CA headquarters. You will test the Rutherford engine, support the Propulsion Production Manager, and deliver results for leadership and investors.

Role requires 5+ years in high-pressure operations, experience with FlexLogger and LabVIEW, and hands-on valve/cryogenic testing. Monday-Thursday shift, with various safety requirements and a broad benefits package.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in high-pressure operations.
• Experience with Data Acquisition & Instrumentation systems such as FlexLogger and LabVIEW.
• Hands-on experience with valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Experience handling LN2/cryogenic components under test conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-pressure pneumatic operations (GN2/HE).
• Set up and operate Data Acquisition systems (FlexLogger and LabVIEW).
• Troubleshoot and repair valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Work with P&IDs and hydrostatic testing procedures.
• Generate Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) documenting issues.
• Support 5S practices to maintain a clean, organized work area.

Skills

High-pressure ops

Data Acquisition

LabVIEW

Cryogenics

Tools

FlexLogger

Valve components

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re‑usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

PROPULSION TEST TECHNICIAN III - A SHIFT

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Propulsion Test Technician is responsible for the testing of our Rutherford rocket engine. The engine consists of a thrust chamber, pumps, valves, plumbing, TVC actuators, motor controllers, and other mechanical components. You will support the Propulsion Production Manager and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Perform high-pressure pneumatic operations (GN2/HE).
• Set up and operate Data Acquisition (DAQ) systems, including FlexLogger and LabView.
• Troubleshoot and repair valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Work with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Conduct hydrostatic testing and handle LN2/cryogenic components during testing procedures.
• Generate Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) to document and address issues.
• Implement and improve 5S practices to maintain a clean and organized work area.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A PROPULSION TEST TECHNICIAN III:

• 5+ years of experience in high‑pressure operations.
• Experience in Data Acquisition & Instrumentation systems such as FlexLogger and LabView.
• Hands‑on experience with valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Experience handling LN2/cryogenic components under test conditions.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 8+ years of mechanical assembly and/or mechanical fitting experience
• Experience performing; torquing, safety and/or lock wire installation, assembly per work instructions, and environment tests (proof and leak).
• A&P, trade, or industry certified.
• Experience with in-space testing.
• Knowledgeable in manufacturing processes and continued product development.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Willing to work Monday - Thursday (5:30am - 3:30pm)
• Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces
• Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, awkward positions, and tight areas as needed
• Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and stooping
• Use hands with precision to handle, control, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
• Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

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, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

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 (CA Only)

$30 — $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.

Important information:

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 here ITAR Regulations.