Avionics Technician

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. 

BUILDING ELECTRON AT ROCKET LAB:  

Electron is the most frequently-launched rocket in the Southern Hemisphere and has reached 50 launches faster than any other company in the world! The team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again. We hustle hard to do the impossible and make beautiful things everyday!  

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:  

As an Avionics Technician at Rocket Lab, you will be hands on, working with tools and equipment to build and assemble all electronic components of the Electron launch vehicle. This can include HV Battery assembly, crimping and constructing wire harnesses, and/or precision soldering of PCBs and avionics components. We currently have positions available across all these teams!  

We currently have openings on Evening shift Monday to Thursday (15:00 to 01:30). So, you can enjoy a 3-day weekend, every weekend and an additional evening shift allowance. Relocation assistance will be provided if required. 

Essential skills  

• Trade qualified in relevant industry and/or able to demonstrate 2+ years of relevant industry experience  
• Precision electrical and/or mechanical assembly experience  
• Operation of electrical, mechanical and automated test equipment  
• Have a working understanding of standard industry ESD policy  
• Have a good level of eyesight and be able to inspect PCBs and/or wiring assemblies to a high workmanship standard  
• Be able to manufacture components to a high workmanship standard, including some soldering and wire harnessing.  

Desired Skills  

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written  
• The ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as autonomously  
• Able to read, understand and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings  
• A high work ethic, always seeking more responsibility. Able to work long hours if required  
• Takes initiative  
• Remains calm under pressure  
• Computer literate, and comfortable using smartphones and tablets  

Rocket Lab Employee Benefits  

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology  
• An employee stock purchase program  
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career  
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks  
• Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.  
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross  
• Additional parental leave entitlements  
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year  
• 4 days on, 3 days off shift pattern. 
• Evening shift allowance. 

If the above is aligned and you're considering a new opportunity apply now! - All applications are reviewed and considered.  

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.