Test Operations Mechanical Technician I/II

Rocket Lab USA; Mississippi; On-site; USD 45,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Test Operations Mechanical Technician to join their innovative team. This role involves building and operating critical test facilities for advanced rocket engines and vehicles, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency. With a focus on collaboration and technical expertise, you'll work alongside skilled technicians and engineers to support groundbreaking space missions. If you're passionate about aerospace and ready to tackle challenging tasks in a dynamic environment, this opportunity is your chance to launch a rewarding career in the space industry.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace or heavy industry.
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems.

Responsibilities

• Build and operate test facilities for rocket engines and launch vehicles.
• Perform troubleshooting and support rocket engine hardware processing.

Skills

Facility Operations

Collaboration

Troubleshooting

Mechanical Systems Building

High Pressure Gas Systems

Cryogenic Systems

Education

High School diploma or GED

Post-secondary education (technical degrees)

Tools

MS Office

JIRA

CONFLUENCE

Job description

Test Operations Mechanical Technician I/II

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!

TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN I/II

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Mechanical Technician I/II is responsible for helping build and operate critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work in collaboration with a team of other technicians and engineers in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation and test efforts.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Build facility systems of tubing, piping and mechanical structures
• Use knowledge and skills to build mechanical systems that adhere to standards of integrity and cleanliness
• Directly support rocket engine hardware processing and checkout operations
• Operate high pressure gas and cryogenic systems using detailed work instructions and proper PPE
• Perform facility checkout and test operations safely while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
• Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
• Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation and checkout of facility systems. Provide your expertise in system layout, system operations and test processes

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN I:

• 2+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil & gas, or heavy industry.
• High School diploma or GED
• Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems.
• A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II:

• 5+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil & gas, or heavy industry.
• High School diploma or GED
• Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems.
• A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
• Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience operating and/or building rocket engine test stands or large industrial complexes
• Knowledge of broad industry processes for pressure systems and cleanliness. i.e. (NASA, US Air Force, Department of Defense, ASME or other regulatory agency).
• Post-secondary education that might include technical degrees or licenses (A&P or similar)
• Experience with rocket engines or launch vehicles or similar aerospace hardware
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
• Knowledge of different valve types, fitting and flange types, materials of construction
• Ability to trouble shoot systems and collaborate to develop corrective work instructions
• Basic computer skills in MS Office, email, collaborative networks like JIRA or CONFLUENCE
• Demonstrated experience working with various trade disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution

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

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.

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.