Test Operations Mechanical Technician

Rocket Lab Rocket Lab is a vertically integrated provider of small launch services, satellites, and spacecraft components. Our mission is to open access to space to improve life on Earth. Our team is over 1,300 people strong and we’re adding to it every week. Collaboration is at our core – every idea is heard, and everyone makes a difference. Teams are nimble, decisions are made quickly, and we are action oriented. NEUTRON ROCKET 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 Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.  Test Operations Mechanical Technician Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Mechanical Technician is responsible for helping build and operate critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle.  You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work in collaboration with a team of other technicians and engineers in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation and engine test efforts. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Build facility systems of tubing, piping and mechanical structures Be personally responsible for your safety and for those around you Use knowledge and skills to build mechanical systems that adhere to standards of integrity and cleanliness Directly support rocket engine hardware processing and checkout operations Setup a new shop starting with an empty high bay.  Help specify tools & equipment.  Build up needed inventory Adhere to best practices for pressure system fabrication, cleanliness and safety Operate high pressure gas and cryogenic systems using detailed work instructions and proper PPE Perform facility checkout and test operations safely while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity Both lead and be part of a team of technicians and engineers who setup and operate the test facility Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation and checkout of facility systems.  Provide your expertise in system layout, system operations and test processes YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated experience in test operations or in designing, building and activating test facilities A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks Knowledge of aerospace processes for pressure systems and cleanliness.   These could include NASA, US Air Force, Department of Defense, ASME or another regulatory agency. Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems A passion for test operations facilities with evidence of personal and substantial contributions to similar projects THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 5+ years’ experience operating and/or building rocket engine test stands or large industrial complexes Post-secondary education that might include technical degrees or licenses (A&P or similar) Experience with rocket engines or launch vehicles or similar aerospace hardware Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane Demonstrated ability to be assertive in a fast-paced operations environment and stand up for what you know is right Knowledge of different valve types, fitting and flange types, materials of construction Ability to trouble shoot systems and collaborate to develop corrective work instructions Basic computer skills in MS Office, email, collaborative networks like JIRA or CONFLUENCE Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S Department of State. 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. 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.