Lead Fabrication Technician - Shift

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.

Based at Rocket Lab Headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Lead Fabrication Technician is responsible for overseeing the manufacturing of parts used to build Rutherford, an innovative electric turbo-pump rocket engine that powers Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicle.

• Lead and guide the fabrication and Test team.
• Perform high-pressure pneumatic operations (GN2/HE) and hydrostatic testing.
• Set up and operate Data Acquisition (DAQ) systems, including Flex Logger and Lab View.
• Troubleshoot and repair valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Work with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) to ensure testing accuracy.
• Handle LN2/cryogenic components during testing procedures and document results.
• Generate Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) to address and resolve issues.

• 8+ years of experience with EDM, Orbital tube welding, deburring, welding, and clean line operations.
• Knowledgeable about various materials used in fabrication, including metals, plastics, and composites.
• Hands-on experience with valves, regulators, pressure relief valves, pressure transducers, and check valves.
• Experience with Material Review Board (MRB) processes and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).

• Experience performing torquing, safety/lock wire installation, assembly per work instructions, and environment tests (proof and leak).
• Knowledge of various materials used in fabrication, including metals, plastics, and composites.
• A&P, trade, or industry certification.
• Experience with inventory control and in-space testing.

• Willing to work A Shift (Monday-Friday 5:00am – 1:30pm)
• Stand and walk extended periods ( 8+ hours) on production floor
• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

$35 — $50 USD

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Other perks include:
Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

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…