Senior Incoming Quality Control Inspector

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, while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft 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. SENIOR INCOMING CONTROL INSPECTOR (IQC) – MECHANICAL Based at Rocket Lab's site in Middle River, Maryland, you will support critical inspection activities that ensure all incoming and in‑process hardware meets the highest standards of aerospace quality. You will perform mechanical inspections, validate drawing requirements, and ensure flight hardware requiring receiving inspection is compliant before entering production. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO Inspect incoming flight hardware and verify compliance with engineering drawings and specifications Review documentation packages and ensure all required paperwork is complete and accurate Evaluate drawing requirements and initiate NCRs for any nonconformances Perform mechanical inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measurement tools Apply GD&T principles and interpret engineering blueprints Support inspection of composite components and large structures Work in a fast‑paced environment that may require long days and weekend support YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS 8+ years of experience in aerospace or equivalent inspection High school diploma or equivalent Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation Proficiency with mechanical measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.) Ability to inspect incoming flight hardware and review documentation packages Experience evaluating drawing requirements and issuing NCRs Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with extended hours as needed THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE Experience with CMM and laser tracker systems Familiarity with Inspire and PolyWorks software Experience with NDT scanning Background performing critical alignments on large structures Experience working with composite materials ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed Read technical documents, drawings and computer screens requiring close and distance vision Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas BASE PAY RANGE (MD ONLY) $32 – $40 USD LEVEL AND BASE SALARY Level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including top‑tier medical HMO, PPO and 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. IMPORTANT INFORMATION 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. 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 View email address on click.appcast.io. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. #J-18808-Ljbffr