Senior Quality Inspector - NDT

Overview

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. We enable ambitious space missions globally across scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate initiatives, national security, and 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. Space Systems designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components used on NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and on the James Webb Space Telescope.

The Senior Quality Inspector - NDT Technician will ensure the integrity, reliability, and quality of components and assemblies by collaborating with engineering and production teams. The role includes developing and implementing processes, acceptance criteria, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for non-destructive testing (NDT) activities. This position requires a highly skilled professional with extensive NDT experience, capable of leading NDT operations, developing testing techniques, and ensuring compliance with industry standards in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to develop and refine NDT processes, acceptance criteria, and SOPs.
• Lead and coordinate daily activities of the NDT team, ensuring efficient and effective inspection operations.
• Perform advanced penetrant (PT) inspections on components and assemblies to detect defects and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Develop and implement NDT inspection techniques for complex geometries and advanced materials.
• Interpret and evaluate penetrant (PT) results to determine acceptability of materials and components.
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, 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.

• 8+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, mechanical fitting, or NDT testing.
• Extensive 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 understanding of NDT standards and codes, including AS, AMS, AWS, NAS, ASME, and ASTM.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Certifications:
  
  NDT Level I in penetrant (PT) and NDT Level II in penetrant (PT) per ASNT, NAS 410, or equivalent standards.

• Proven experience improving NDT processes for efficiency, productivity, and quality assurance.
• Certified in AWS or Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
• Familiarity with advanced inspection techniques for complex geometries and challenging materials.

• Ability to work one shift: A Shift 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM.
• Stand and walk for 8+ hours on varied surfaces; climb ladders and work at heights; tolerate small spaces and awkward positions.
• Perform repetitive motions and handle tools, instruments, and equipment with precision.
• Lift up to 25 lbs; work in varied environments with noise and temperature variations.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as needed.