Launch Technician, Mechanical
Listed on 2026-01-04
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Engineering
Aerospace / Aviation / Avionics, Manufacturing Engineer -
Manufacturing / Production
Aerospace / Aviation / Avionics, Manufacturing Engineer
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 mitigation, national security, and 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. While we develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle, the Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
LaunchTechnician – Mechanical
Based out of Rocket Lab’s new launch complex in Wallops Island, VA, the Launch Technician – Mechanical is key to enabling LC‑2 in delivering launches at the highest rate. With a focus on mechanical systems, you will assist a tight‑knit team of technicians to build, integrate, test, operate and maintain critical launch systems and process launch vehicles.
What You’ll Get to Do- Fit‑out, assembly & installation of launch pad systems such as heavy engineering structures, mechanisms, fluid lines and associated components, electrical and control hardware and RF equipment.
- Preventative maintenance and inspection procedures.
- Pressure and leak testing of fluid systems.
- Precision cleaning of critical components.
- Troubleshooting mechanical issues on launch pad system.
- Support activities during launch – pad and vehicle integration and check‑outs.
- Conduct routine maintenance and upgrades of the launch systems.
- Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport.
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 2+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment.
- Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components.
- Current U.S. Passport or willing and able to obtain a valid U.S. Passport.
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 5+ years of experience within an aerospace, industrial or relevant industry environment.
- Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics and/or fluid components.
- Standing for long periods of time, climbing ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping and stretching may be required.
- Able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
- Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
- Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist and use hands to handle, control or feel objects, tools or controls.
- Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum.
- Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl and be able to maneuver in tight spaces.
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 work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out‑think, out‑work and out‑pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small.
We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
- To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
- Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact the dedicated resource – Giulia Johnson at
- For security reasons background checks…
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