Quality Inspector I​/II - C Shift

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world.

Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13‑tonne payload class reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

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. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean‑sheet development of reusable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity.

Based out of Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Quality Inspector I/II is responsible for carrying out inspections using, but not limited to, prescribed inspection criteria. A high level of attention to detail is needed to detect anything related to the product that does not meet engineering/production standards. In this role you will help prevent faulty hardware from progressing in the manufacturing process and support root‑cause mitigation and elimination of failure modes.

You will support the Quality Manager and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. (

Please note:

this position can be hired at the Quality Inspector I or Quality Inspector II level.)

• Perform complex mechanical inspections for purchased parts, 3D‑printed components, CNC‑machined items, electro‑mechanical components, and propulsion assemblies.
• Perform all types of precision inspections, including receiving, in‑process and final assembly inspections. This includes capability to effectively use hand measurement systems and CMM.
• Thoroughly document non‑conformance in accordance with Rocket Lab systems and procedures in our internal ERP, MES and Issue tracking system.
• Collaborate with engineering and management to improve work instructions and identify critical inspection points in the process.
• Coordinate with Production personnel to prioritize workload and enable the team to meet key delivery milestones.
• Embody a Built in Quality philosophy, consistently detecting non‑conformance (Don’t accept a defect – Don’t pass a defect) and preventing escapes to downstream customers.

• 2+ years of experience working in a quality assurance role in a quality mechanical manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• High school diploma or GED

• 5+ years of experience working in a quality assurance role in a quality mechanical manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• High school diploma or GED

• High level of experience using hand measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, feeler gauges, pine gauges, thread gauges, surface roughness measurement, microscope, etc.
• Some exposure to CMM using Calypso or PC‑DMIS software
• Experience on using measurement instruments like comparators
• Inspection experience with aerospace components & assemblies
• Experience working with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems

• Ability to work C Shift (Friday – Sunday 5:00 am – 3:30 pm)
• Ability to travel and…