Composite Development Technician, all levels
Middle River, MD - USA
Job Summary
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
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 globally supporting scientific exploration Earth observation and missions to combat climate change national security and exciting new technology demonstrations.
Our Electron rockethas become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit all while we work to develop Neutron our upcoming medium-lift reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites payloads and their components including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
NEUTRON
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 Labs proven execution history with the Electron program.
Composite Development Technician- All Levels
Composite Development Technicians will be based out of Rocket Labs newest Space Structures Complex production facility in Middle River MD. Composite Development Technicians are specialists with key skills in composite process development ability to work with highly complex laminates and bonded joints and ability to perform highly complex composite repair work. The Composite Development Technicians will be responsible for the most critical development work for the build and assembly of Composite components used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure as well as key repairs modifications and upgrades required to ensure our launch vehicle is continuously improving.
WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:
- Work with manufacturing engineering to developadvanced manufacturing processes for: complex laminates challenging bonded joints and largestructural assemblies.
- Development of techniques and methods to streamline the assembly of structures including setupbondingand fastener applications
- Composite layup ofhighly complexlaminates including development of methods to ensureaccurateplacement of plies inserts honeycomb core etc.
- Application of advanced measurement techniques to ensure proper reference points and adherence to drawingdatum structure including definitions in rework or repair documentation.
- Integration of mechanical hardwareto a high degree of precision. Includes re-installationrepair ( up-sizing) and precision drilling through both carbon fiber and multi-material stacks.
- Perform other standard composite and integration building techniques and practices as industries such as aerospacespaceand other composite workplaces demand.
- You may be requested to work on other products for Rocket Lab in the local area or travel asrequired.
NOTE: This requisition can be hired at a Technician Level I II III OR SENIOR
YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE DEVELOPMENT TECH I:
- Experience in compositecomponent R&Dmilitaryequipmentcomposite repair andmaintenance(military or civilian
- High School Diploma or GED
- Experience using various hand and power tools
YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE DEVELOPMENT TECH II:
- 2 years of experience in compositecomponent R&Dmilitaryequipmentcomposite repair andmaintenance(military or civilian
- High School Diploma or GED
- Experience using various hand and power tools
YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMPOSITE DEVELOPMENT TECH III:
- 5 years of experience in compositecomponent R&Dmilitaryequipmentcomposite repair andmaintenance(military or civilian
- High School Diploma or GED
- Experience using various hand and power tools
YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR SENIOR COMPOSITE DEVELOPMENT TECH:
- 8 years of experience in compositecomponent R&Dmilitaryequipmentcomposite repair andmaintenance(military or civilian
- High School Diploma or GED
- Experience using various hand and power tools
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experienced in Core bond and Splicing
- Broad Industry manufacturing experience from previous appointments
- 5 years composite experience
- Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge
- Resin infusion knowledge
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Stand and walk for entire shift (8 hours) on various work surfaces
- Climb ladders and work at elevated heightsmallspaces awkward positions and tight areas as needed
- Perform repetitive motions including bending twisting reaching grasping pushing pulling and stooping
- Use hands with precision to handle control andoperatetools instruments and equipment
- Lift carry push and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
- Work in varied environments including production floors equipment areas and field locations with exposure to noise temperature variations and moving machinery
- Flexibility to work extended hours weekends and varied shifts as operational needs require
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills education and experience.
Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option dental and vision coverage 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year 11 paid holidays per year flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts paid parental leave disability insurance life insurance and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program and free snacks/drinks onsite.
Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the companys discretion.
Base Pay Range (MD Only)
$27 - $50 USD
WHAT TO EXPECT
Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
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 (i.e. current Green Card holder) or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race color religion age sex national origin disability status genetics protected veteran status sexual orientation gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab including recruiting hiring placement promotion termination layoff recall transfer leaves of absence compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia Japan New Zealand Switzerland the European Union or a country that is part of NATO or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations click here ITAR Regulations.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
The end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components.