Quality Inspector Iii - Ndt

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.

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new larger rocket, Neutron, and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new larger rocket for the very first time.

As a Quality Inspector III – NDT based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, CA, you will support critical inspection activities that ensure the integrity and reliability of components and assemblies across our advanced manufacturing programs. In this role, you will lead and perform penetrant (PT) NDT inspections, develop testing procedures, and uphold compliance with rigorous industry standards. To excel, you must be detail‑driven, technically adept, and committed to maintaining the highest levels of quality in a fast‑paced, mission‑focused environment.

• Lead and coordinate the daily activities of the Quality inspection – NDT team.
• Perform advanced penetrant (PT) inspections on components and assemblies to detect defects, discontinuities, and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Develop and implement NDT inspection techniques for complex geometries and materials.
• Interpret and evaluate penetrant (PT) results to determine the acceptability of materials and components.
• Provide technical guidance and training to NDT Level I and II technicians.
• Support research and development efforts for system qualification and certification of critical processes.
• Ensure adherence to NDT standards such as AS, AMS, AWS, NAS, ASME, and ASTM.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to improve NDT processes and eliminate non‑conforming products.
• Maintain accurate documentation of inspection results and ensure compliance with quality management systems.
• Stay updated on advancements in NDT technology and techniques to continuously improve inspection capabilities.

• 5+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, mechanical fitting, or NDT testing.
• Certified in American Welding Society (AWS) or Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
• Certification as NDT Level III in penetrant (PT) (per ASNT, NAS 410, or equivalent standards).
• Experience in aviation, aerospace, or a similar industry performing NDT inspections.
• Extensive experience inspecting advanced materials such as high‑strength aluminum alloys, precipitation‑hardened steels, Inconel, Monel, titanium, and Maraging steel.
• Strong knowledge of NDT standards and codes, including AS, AMS, AWS, NAS, ASME, and ASTM.
• High school diploma or GED.

• Proven experience in improving NDT processes for efficiency, productivity, and quality assurance.
• Familiarity with advanced inspection techniques for complex geometries and challenging materials.

• Ability to work one of the following shifts:
  • 3:00 PM – 1:30 AM Monday – Thursday
• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard, and office equipment for extended periods.
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools, and technical equipment, as needed.
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision.
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed.
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package, including medical (HMO, PPO, and a 100%…