Recovery Barge Technician - all levels

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, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been 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. If you're interested in joining a high performing team and pushing the boundaries of humanity with a clean sheet, reusable launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!


RECOVERY BARGE TECHNICIAN

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Barge Technicians to support Rocket Lab's Neutron Recovery team in Middle River MD. The Barge Technicians support Neutron's offshore recovery missions by operating and maintaining critical deck and recovery systems. This role requires strong marine operational experience, technical skill with heavy equipment, and the ability to work effectively in a high-tempo offshore environment. Experience supporting rocket recovery or aerospace marine operations is highly desirable.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Assist with offshore rocket recovery operations aboard marine barges and support vessels
• Operate, monitor, and maintain deck equipment used during recovery missions
• Support setup, inspection, and handling of rocket interface hardware, including:
  • Rocket holding and securing systems
  • Inerting and tank safety systems
• Execute safe handling procedures for flight hardware once secured on deck
• Perform routine maintenance and pre-mission checks on marine and recovery equipment
• Coordinate with marine crew, engineers, and recovery team members during operations
• Follow all maritime safety, environmental, and mission-specific procedures
• Participate in offshore mobilization and demobilization activities

NOTE: This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level II, III or Senior.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A RECOVERY BARGE TECHNICIAN II:

• High School diploma or GED
• 2+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A RECOVERY BARGE TECHNICIAN III:

• High School diploma or GED
• 5+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR RECOVERY BARGE TECHNICIAN:

• High School diploma or GED
• 8+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience supporting rocket recovery or aerospace marine operations
• Familiarity with lifting, securing, and transport of large or sensitive structures
• Knowledge of inert gas systems or tank safety systems
• Previous work on recovery barges, offshore platforms, or specialized marine vessels

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & 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. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, and free snacks/drinks onsite.

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.

Base Pay Range (MD Only)

$31.73-$38.46 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 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.


Important information:

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. Learn more about ITAR here.

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 dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.


Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.