Neutron Mechanical Assembly Technician

New Zealand·Aucklandmid

OtherMechanical Assembly Technician

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Quick Summary

Key Responsibilities

Interpret engineering drawings and independently determine build strategies for new assemblies Construct large-scale structural components (thrust structures, major assemblies) involving drilling,

Technical Tools

OtherMechanical Assembly Technician

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 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.

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

This is a development-focused mechanical systems role for someone who wants to use their engineering mindset daily. You'll receive engineering drawings and figure out how to build complex assemblies, create custom tooling, and solve technical challenges in real-time. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge rocket development before processes become standardized—ideal for those who want to engineer solutions, not just follow instructions.

Responsibilities

~1 min read

→Interpret engineering drawings and independently determine build strategies for new assemblies
→Construct large-scale structural components (thrust structures, major assemblies) involving drilling, riveting, and precision mechanical work
→Fabricate custom tooling and fixtures using manual machining (lathe/mill) as needed
→Perform extended hours during critical build/test phases
→Travel regularly to US facilities (approximately 2 weeks every 6-8 weeks) for integration and testing support
→Proactively troubleshoot technical problems and propose solutions independently

Requirements

~1 min read

Strong mechanical assembly background (nuts/bolts fundamentals)
Proven hands-on technical skills in mechanical systems
Ability to work autonomously and think critically through build challenges

Requirements

~3 min read

Machining experience (lathe/mill operation for custom part fabrication)
TIG welding skills
Structural assembly background (large-scale drilling/riveting on aviation or similar structures)
Basic electrical/wire harnessing exposure (able to terminate connectors, follow wiring diagrams)
Practical engineering graduates with strong hands-on workshop experience
Ability to adapt quickly to design changes and maintain positive team morale through setbacks
Proven success and experience as a Rocket Lab technician is strongly preferred.

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.