Orbital Tube Welder II​/III

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit. We are developing Neutron, a medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment.

Our Space Systems business designs and builds a wide range of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Based out of Rocket Lab Headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Orbital Tube Welder will weld and fabricate various fluid systems and sub‑assembly components for the Rutherford and Archimedes rocket engines.
Note: This position can be hired at the Orbital Tube Welder II or Orbital Tube Welder III level.

• Develop weld schedules for OTW from tubing sizes ranging from 1/4” to 6”.
• Perform tube bending, flaring, fit‑up, and preparation to meet project specifications and industry standards.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to execute tubing projects accurately.
• Operate and maintain orbital tube welding equipment (e.g., Orbitalum or AMI systems) to ensure high‑quality welds.
• Work with OTW machines or automated fabrication equipment.
• Apply NDE (Non‑Destructive Examination) processes to inspect and verify the integrity of tubing and welds.

• 8+ years of OTW experience in aviation, aerospace, or a related industry.
• Certification in welding or tube fabrication.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as ASME or ISO.
• Solid understanding of NDE processes.

• Available to work Monday – Thursday (rotating shifts).
• Must be able to stand for long periods, climb ladders, bend, grasp, sit, pull, push, stoop, and stretch.
• Can lift up to 25 lb unassisted.
• Must be able to work in tight spaces and conduct repetitive motions.

Base Pay Range (CA Only): $25 – $40 USD per hour.

Benefits include company equity, health and dental coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave, 11 paid holidays, a 401(k) plan with company match, and additional perks such as a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, and food and drinks.

We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space. Our team thrives under pressure, meets tight deadlines, and prioritizes delivering results over dwelling on challenges. We value hard work, innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Compliance Notes

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab employees must be eligible for U.S. government clearance. For candidates seeking to work in U.S. offices, you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise able to obtain the required authorizations.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.