Recovery Barge Technician

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 worldwide, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate‑change countermeasures, 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. We are also developing Neutron, an upcoming medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle designed for large constellation deployment.

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle capable of delivering mega‑constellations, high‑assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. It offers a highly cost‑effective, reliable launch solution built on Rocket Lab’s proven Electron experience.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Barge Technician to support Rocket Lab’s Neutron Recovery team in Middle River, MD. The Barge Technician operates and maintains critical deck and recovery systems for offshore recovery missions, requiring strong marine operational experience, technical expertise with heavy equipment, and the ability to work effectively in a high‑tempo offshore environment. Experience supporting rocket recovery or aerospace marine operations is highly desirable.

• Assist with offshore rocket recovery operations aboard marine barges and support vessels
• Operate, monitor, and maintain deck equipment used during recovery missions
• Support setup, inspection, and handling of rocket interface hardware, including
  • Rocket holding and securing systems
  • Inerting and tank safety systems
• Execute safe handling procedures for flight hardware once secured on deck
• Perform routine maintenance and pre‑mission checks on marine and recovery equipment
• Coordinate with marine crew, engineers, and recovery team members during operations
• Follow all maritime safety, environmental, and mission‑specific procedures
• Participate in offshore mobilization and demobilization activities

NOTE:

This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level II, III, or Senior.

• High School diploma or GED
• 2+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

• High School diploma or GED
• 5+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

• High School diploma or GED
• 8+ years experience with deck operations and heavy marine equipment
• Strong understanding of offshore safety procedures and vessel operations
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

• Experience supporting rocket recovery or aerospace marine operations
• Familiarity with lifting, securing, and transport of large or sensitive structures
• Knowledge of inert gas systems or tank safety systems
• Previous work on recovery barges, offshore platforms, or specialized marine vessels

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate a computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings and work at various facilities and sites.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.
• Work offshore with 25% travel.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related knowledge, skills, education, and…