Incoming Quality Control; IQC Inspector III – Mechanical

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite components, and more. With the goal of opening access to space, our rockets and satellites enable ambitious missions in scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change, national security, and technology demonstrations.

The Electron rocket is a leading U.S. launch vehicle, and we are developing Neutron, our medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle. Join the Space Systems business designing satellites and payloads, including NASA missions to the Moon and Mars.

Based in Middle River, Maryland, you will support critical inspection activities to ensure incoming hardware meets aerospace quality standards. Perform mechanical inspections, validate drawings, and maintain compliance before production.

• Inspect incoming flight hardware and verify compliance with engineering drawings and specifications.
• Review documentation packages and ensure all required paperwork is complete and accurate.
• Evaluate drawing requirements and initiate NCRs for any non‑conformances.
• Perform mechanical inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measurement tools.
• Apply GD&T principles and interpret engineering blueprints.
• Support inspection of composite components and large structures.
• Work in a fast‑paced environment that may require long days and weekend support.

• 5+ years of experience in aerospace or equivalent inspection.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
• Proficiency with mechanical measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
• Ability to inspect incoming flight hardware and review documentation packages.
• Experience evaluating drawing requirements and issuing NCRs.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with extended hours as needed.

• Experience with CMM and laser tracker systems.
• Familiarity with Inspire and Poly Works software.
• Experience with NDT scanning.
• Background performing critical alignments on large structures.
• Experience working with composite materials.

• Specific vision abilities required 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 between buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.

Base salary is determined on a case‑by‑case basis. You may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package that includes medical HMO and PPO plans, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, a 401(k) with company match, an employee stock purchase program, and free snacks/drinks onsite.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to protected characteristics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoffs, transfers, and compensation.

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, Rocket Lab Employees must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process may contact Giulia Johnson.

Background checks, including nationality checks, will be conducted prior to any employment offers. Eligibility may be limited by citizenship or dual nationality requirements under U.S. export regulations.