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.
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 and precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, such as 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 and 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, a 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.
MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II
Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Toronto, Ontario, the Mechanical Technician II will be responsible for the integration of spacecraft precision attitude determination and control products, which are comprised of mechanical, electrical, and optical subassemblies. The successful candidate will assemble, inspect, and perform other duties associated with building products from Rocket Lab's star tracker and reaction wheel product lines. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Perform mechanical integration of space hardware in a clean environment
- Integrate electrical subassemblies into mechanical housings
- Assemble and focus opto-mechanical subassemblies
- Conduct functional and performance testing of reaction wheel and star tracker subassemblies and units
- Perform final inspections (mass and photography) of parts, subassemblies, and integrated units
- Install bearings into reaction wheel assemblies
- Apply lubricant/grease to rotary components with precision
- Shim reaction wheels to achieve clearances and bearing preloads with precision
- Perform bulk cleaning of components using an ultrasonic cleaner and manual cleaning with isopropanol
- Occasionally rework or modify fixtures and production components
- Apply staking compounds (epoxy and/or Loctite) to threaded fasteners in a controlled manner
- Document all activities and collected data accurately
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II:
- 2+ years of experience with precision mechanical integration
- Excellent fine motor skills, including the ability to manipulate small components with fine tweezers
- Excellent vision at close range (with or without corrective lenses)
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience working with high-reliability aerospace or spacecraft components
- Experience with machined aluminum components, bearings, and optics
- Ability to use digital or analog calipers, micrometers, and dial gauges to measure critical dimensions
- Proficiency with a drill press, hand drill, and other basic metalworking tools
- Ability to use a torque wrench
- Experience using an optical microscope (4-20x magnification range)
- Ability to interpret and follow technical instructions supplemented by verbal instruction
- Familiarity with cleanroom/cleanbench best practices
- Familiarity with best practices for working with ESD-sensitive hardware
- Highly organized and able to work independently with strong attention to detail
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to stand and walk for an entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces
- Ability to climb ladders and work at elevated heights, in 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
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 [email protected].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.
