Materials Lab Technician II

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.

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.

Based at Rocket Lab’s new headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Materials Lab Technician II is responsible for supporting the development of various Additive Manufacturing and Composite materials for the Neutron vehicle and Archimedes engines. This role supports all Additive and Composites processes involved with the Neutron vehicle and Archimedes engines and works with the Manager of Additive Manufacturing and Production.

Deliverables support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors.

• Prepare, test, evaluate, and certify all metallurgical tests required per internal production, customer and/or specification requirements.
• Operate testing equipment such as Instron tensile frames at cryogenic and elevated temperatures, metallography testing (grinding, polishing, mounting, microscopy), XRF analysis, SEM analysis, and hardness testing.
• Check test samples for dimensions using precision measuring equipment such as gages, calipers, scales, micrometers.
• Monitor all work to ensure quality standards are maintained and adhered to all specifications and requirements.
• Interface with engineering to coordinate testing and test results.
• Maintain lab database with complete lab test results and accuracy.
• Maintain a clean work environment (including assigned storage and cleaning duties) in full compliance with company standards, customer and government regulations.
• Participate and support internal & external audits and support metallurgical audits.
• Ensure the company's commitment to maintain a safe workplace and protect the environment through company policy and adherence to government regulations.
• Perform other duties, tasks and responsibilities as assigned.
• Program/run lab heat‑treat oven for test coupons and some production parts.

• 2+ years of metallurgical lab experience or related functions.
• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
• Demonstrated familiarity with drawings, testing specifications, hand tools, bandsaw, cut‑off machine, etc.
• Working knowledge of alloys, e.g., Ni, Cu, and Ti alloys.
• Experience testing carbon composite materials.

• Experience with tensile testing of metallic / composite material.
• Experience with test coupon preparation including cutting, mounting, polishing, and etching.
• Experience with macro and micro hardness testing.
• Experience with optical microscopy.
• Experience with round robin test.
• Demonstrated knowledge of quality control, customer and NADCAP requirements.
• Demonstrated interpersonal, organizational, and verbal/written communication skills.

• 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…