Launch Technician, Electrical

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 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. 

Electron

The Electron rocket is a small, expendable launch vehicle developed by Rocket Lab, an American aerospace manufacturer with a wholly-owned New Zealand subsidiary. Designed to provide cost-effective access to space for small satellites, the Electron is specifically tailored for launching lightweight payloads, such as CubeSats and small scientific instruments, into low Earth orbit (LEO).

Please note:

*Requires ability to obtain a DOD top secret clearance*

*Requires international travel for training*

*This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level II or III*

LAUNCH TECHNICIAN II-III - ELECTRICAL

Based out of Rocket Lab's new launch complex in Wallops Island, VA the Launch Technician – Electrical is key to enabling LC-2 in delivering launches at the highest rate. With a focus on electrical systems, you will be working with a tight-knit team of technicians and engineers to build, integrate, test, operate and maintain critical launch systems and process launch vehicles.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Fit out, assembly and installation of launch pad electrical systems such as electrical and control hardware and RF equipment
• Installation and build of industrial electrical hardware, instrumentation and control hardware and power systems
• Installation and build of harnesses and wiring for extra low voltage systems through to 500 V systems
• Troubleshooting electrical issues on launch pad and range control systems
• Development of preventative maintenance and inspection procedures for electrical systems
• Support launch vehicle, launch pad, and launch operations with regard to integration and checkouts
• Routine maintenance and upgrades of the launch electrical systems
• Ensure health and safety policies and standard operating procedures are followed
• Domestic and short duration international travel as required
• Support the training and development of your team when it grows

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TECHNICIAN II: 

• Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport
• High School Diploma or GED
• 2+ years of experience in avionics/electrical hardware build, installation, repair and/or maintenance

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TECHNICIAN III: 

• Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport
• High School Diploma or GED
• 5+ years of experience in avionics/electrical hardware build, installation, repair and/or maintenance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Previous experience working at a rocket launch facility and supporting launch campaigns
• Experience with maintenance and repair of generators and UPS Systems
• Excellent Trouble Shooting Skills
• Understanding of fluid systems - pneumatic, cryogenic and/or hydraulics preferred
• Understanding of instrumentation and control systems
• Experience with Data Systems and Equipment
• Experience using Labview or comparable User Interface
• Experience with micro electronics
• Experience with launch vehicle avionics components

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus. 
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.  
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This 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.