Test Technician III - B Shift

rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Purchase

Medical plans

Dental and vision

Paid vacation

401(k) with company match

EV charging

Onsite gym

Snacks & beverages

Merch discounts

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Test Technician III - B Shift to support testing of the Rutherford rocket engine. You will set up and run high-pressure tests, manage data acquisition systems, and troubleshoot valves and cryogenic components.

The role requires hands-on experience with LN2/cryogenic testing, DAQ systems (FlexLogger/LabVIEW), and a strong background in mechanical assembly. Shift: 3:15pm–1:45am; salary: $30–$40/hr plus comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Perform high-pressure pneumatic operations (GN2/HE).
• Set up and operate DAQ systems including FlexLogger and LabVIEW.
• Troubleshoot and repair valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, transducers.
• Work with P&IDs and conduct hydrostatic testing.
• Generate NCRs to document issues and support 5S practices.

Skills

High-pressure operations

DAQ & Instrumentation

Valves & regulators

Cryogenic handling

Tools

FlexLogger

LabVIEW

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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!

TEST TECHNICIAN III - B SHIFT

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Test Technician III 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 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 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 (3:15pm - 1:45am)

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. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee 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.

Hourly 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 peopl