Avionics Technician, all levels

About The Role

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, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! 

Avionics Technician - All Levels 

Join the Vehicle Integration team as an Avionics Technician I-IV, where you will play a pivotal role in the installation of mechanical, electrical, and fluids components along with integrated systems testing of Neutron launch vehicles. Our team is comprised of highly skilled integration technicians with a diverse background and various fields of expertise working seamlessly together to see the launch vehicle through production from integration all the way to day-of-launch activities. The ability to adapt and employ a versatile skillset is essential. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:  

• Install fluids, avionics, and all other components onto the launch vehicle along with troubleshooting and completing functional tests of the fully integrated launch vehicle
• Engage in hands-on work with tools, equipment, and facilities to build, launch, or test Rocket Lab launch vehicles or components. 
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team to meet production and launch schedules. 
• Adhere to high precision standards in assembly tasks, including crimping, soldering, and harness termination. 
• Conduct inspections to ensure components and assemblies meet stringent workmanship standards. 
• Actively contribute to setting up local 5S work centers. 
• Manage multiple tasks and pivot onto exciting high-priority tasks. 
• Other duties as assigned 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN AVIONICS TECHNICIAN I.

• Experience across a variety of avionics or electrical systems across multiple platforms
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Harness installation and fabrication – crimping, soldering and harness tie in
• Use specialist tools and equipment – wire strippers, torque    drivers, milliohmeter, multimeter, DC power supply etc
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN AVIONICS TECHNICIAN II: 

• 2+ years of experience across a variety of avionics or electrical systems across multiple platforms
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Harness installation and fabrication – crimping, soldering and harness tie in
• Use specialist tools and equipment – wire strippers, torque    drivers, milliohmeter, multimeter, DC power supply etc
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN AVIONICS TECHNICIAN III: 

• 5+ years of experience across a variety of avionics or electrical systems across multiple platforms
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Harness installation and fabrication – crimping, soldering and harness tie in
• Use specialist tools and equipment – wire strippers, torque drivers, milliohmeter, multimeter, DC power supply etc.
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

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

• 8 + years of experience across a variety of avionics or electrical systems across multiple platforms
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Harness installation and fabrication – crimping, soldering and harness tie in
• Use specialist tools and equipment – wire strippers, torque    drivers, milliohmeter, multimeter, DC power supply etc
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Maintenance skills including: troubleshooting, precision cleaning, components disassembly/assembly, system testing, and others. 
• The ability to read and build assembly drawings 
• Experience and comfortability with necessary equipment to perform job duties including:  
• Forklift, telehandler, boom lift, scissor lift, power tools, torque wrenches and others 
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to work to exacting standards. 
• Good level of eyesight for inspecting assemblies and manufacturing components to high workmanship standards. 
• Ability to work effectively in both team environments and independently. 
• Capable of reading, understanding, and following manufacturing instructions and drawings. 
• High work ethic with a proactive approach; willingness to take on more responsibility and work long hours if required. 
• Demonstrates initiative and ability to remain calm under pressure. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• 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.  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)

$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 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 rocketlabcorp.com 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.