Operator

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 rocket has 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. 

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions

OPERATOR I-III, PRODUCTION

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we’re looking for Operator I-III, Production to join our production team and work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment. Rocket Lab is a leading provider of high efficiency solar cells, solar panels, and composite structural products or satellite and aerospace applications. We’re the world’s only vertically integrated, end-to-end supplier of satellite solar arrays – our space solar products have powered over 1,000 satellites in orbit to date! 

Note: you’ll have an assigned shift, but the training hours may vary from that when you start. Certain shifts may qualify for a shift differential on the base pay, depending on the hours and schedule.  

(Please note: these positions can be hired at the Operator I, Operator II, or Operator III level) 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Perform a variety of functions in the production of semiconductor devices, as well as specific process steps in the assembly and test of production units 
• Set up and prepare work station/assembly fixtures 
• Read and comprehend basic drawings and schematics 
• Identify failure discrepancies per visual and/or written descriptions 
• Utilize visual aides such as microscopes, visors, and eye loops 
• Utilize computer hardware and software, including MS Office 
• Collect and record data 
• Read and comprehend instructions, short correspondences, and memos 
• Work with various kinds of test equipment 
• You may be required to operate UV curing systems and thermal curing ovens, as well as measure and pour chemicals, depending on the team/shift you support 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS OPERATOR I, PRODUCTION: 

• High school diploma or GED 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS OPERATOR II, PRODUCTION: 

• High school diploma or GED 
• 2+ years of work experience in a production or manufacturing environment, or other highly regulated industry 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS OPERATOR III, PRODUCTION: 

• High school diploma or GED 
• 5+ years of work experience in a production or manufacturing environment, or other highly regulated industry 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Knowledge of ESD and cleanroom procedures
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment
• Ability to hear and speak effectively before groups of customers and employees
• Capable of multitasking, and working with cross-functional teams
• Experience with computing rate, ratio, and percentages; as well as drawing and interpreting bar graphs 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Stand and walk extended periods (8+ hours) on production floor 
• Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
• Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

WHAT TO EXPECT 

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.   

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.