SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR ASSEMBLY INTEGRATION & TEST TECHNICIAN

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA the AIT Technician II is responsible for performing spacecraft assembly, integration, and test activities while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and workmanship. This role builds and integrates flight hardware by following engineering drawings, work instructions, and manufacturing procedures. The technician is expected to demonstrate proficiency in electrical and mechanical assembly techniques, contribute to a collaborative production environment, and support the successful delivery of spacecraft hardware.

Our ideal candidate has a strong manufacturing foundation, takes pride in workmanship, and is eager to expand their technical skills within a fast-paced aerospace production environment.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Assemble, integrate, and test spacecraft hardware in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards.
• Install electrical and mechanical hardware including harnesses, avionics components, heaters, RTDs, brackets, connectors, and other flight hardware.
• Utilize electrical and mechanical assembly tools, measurement equipment, and calibrated tooling safely and effectively.
• Perform functional checks, continuity testing, insulation resistance testing, and other production verification activities as required.
• Support spacecraft functional testing, comprehensive performance testing (CPT), and environmental test campaigns as required.
• Support spacecraft propulsion integration activities including hardware installation, pressure testing, leak testing, and system verification in accordance with approved procedures.
• Support critical spacecraft lifts utilizing overhead cranes, mobile gantries, and approve lifting fixtures while adhering to established safety and handling procedures.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR AIT TECHNICIAN:

• 8+ years of relevant manufacturing experience or demonstrated subject matter expertise, preferably in aerospace.
• Demonstrated technical leadership on complex spacecraft assembly, integration, and test campaigns.
• Experience performing advanced mechanical rework including drilling, tapping, precision alignment, and bonded repairs.
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion systems including pressure testing, leak testing, propellant handling, vacuum systems, or thrust stand operations.
• Experience integrating spacecraft subsystems such as solar arrays, propulsion systems, payloads, deployable mechanisms, or equivalent flight hardware.
• Experience performing critical spacecraft lifts utilizing overhead cranes, mobile gantries, and approved lifting fixtures.
• Ability to lead troubleshooting efforts involving multiple engineering disciplines.
• Ability to identify manufacturing risks and implement process improvements that improve safety, quality, cost, or schedule.
• Ability to interpret engineering intent when drawings or work instructions require clarification.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Current IPC-WHMA-A-620 certification.
• Current J-STD-001 certification.
• NCCCO Certified Rigger.
• Experience developing or improving manufacturing work instructions.
• Experience supporting MRB, NCR, RCCA, or 5-Why investigations.
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement training.
• Experience with SAP, MES, ERP, or other manufacturing execution systems.
• GD&T interpretation.
• Experience supporting design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews.
• Experience supporting customer inspections or mission-critical hardware reviews.
• Cross-functional expertise across multiple spacecraft subsystems including avionics, propulsion, structures, harnessing, environmental test, and spacecraft integration.
• Demonstrated ability to perform work safely while maintaining quality, workmanship, and configuration control.
• Ability to work effectively within a cross-functional production team.
• Recognized as a technical subject matter expert in one or more spacecraft assembly disciplines.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor technicians across multiple skill levels while driving workmanship excellence and continuous improvement.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Willing to work B Shift (Monday – Thursday 3:00pm - 1:30am)
• 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