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

IQC INSPECTOR I/II

Based at Rocket Lab’s site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the IQC Inspector will be responsible for executing various aerospace inspections. You will support the Quality Inspector Supervisor and Space Systems organization. In this role, you’ll inspect mechanical and electrical components for spacecraft assemblies, operate precision tools like CMMs and micrometers, and assemble flight mechanisms using production drawings. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

(Please note: this position can be hired at the IQC Inspector I or IQC Inspector II level)

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Inspect mechanical and electrical components before use in traceable spacecraft assemblies
• Use and maintenance of Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM), calipers, micrometers, gages, comparators, hardness testers, and other common mechanical inspection tools.
• Create Standard Operating Procedures for specific mechanical parts.
• Communicate findings through written standardized documentation and verbal discussion.
• Assemble space flight mechanisms following written production drawings and procedures.
• Idea generation of potential process improvements.
• Shipping and receiving components according to standard company procedures.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN IQC INSPECTOR I:

• High school diploma or GED
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with common aerospace inspection tools, e.g. calipers, multimeters, micrometers, gages, comparators, etc.
• Familiarity with common aerospace assembly tools, e.g. torque wrenches, force gages, load cells, scales, etc.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN IQC INSPECTOR II:

• 2+ years of quality inspection experience in a highly regulated production or manufacturing environment
• High school diploma or GED
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with common aerospace inspection tools, e.g. calipers, multimeters, micrometers, gages, comparators, etc.
• Familiarity with common aerospace assembly tools, e.g. torque wrenches, force gages, load cells, scales, etc.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• At least 8+ years engineering experience in the aerospace industry.
• Candidate has capacity to comply with the federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws.
• Direct inspection or design experience with parts complying to the ASME Y14.5 standard.
• Familiarity with use of CMM.
• Strong technical and mechanical capability.
• Familiarity with simple electrical schematics and components.
• Attention to detail necessary to verify inspected components meet required specifications.
• Integrity and focus to follow and execute procedures.
• Familiarity with common geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) practices.
• Passion for doing excellent work with mechanisms and physical assemblies.
• Mechanically inclined and able to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
• Self-motivated mind-set.
• Effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Desire to work in a small-company environment.

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