Lead Composite Technician- 2nd Shift

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.

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 Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

LEAD COMPOSITE TECHNICIAN

The Lead Composite Technician is responsible for leading the build and assembly of composite components used in the production of the Neutron Launch Vehicle structure, and actively participates in hands-on work as part of this working lead role. This will be a highly influential position with daily responsibility for setting job assignments to meet workflow demands and to drive daily progress. The Lead Composite Technician will be a key stakeholder in mentoring and training the team. In this role you must be an inspiring leader and set standards for the team but also be ready to work with your hands in the field.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Lead a team of highly qualified composited technicians to ensure clarity and accountability of responsibilities at our Space Structures Complex.

Coordinate build activities and progress through daily leadership meetings, addressing daily, weekly, and long-term levels.

Track output of the team against delivery objectives as well as manage capacity planning and schedule of the team

Drive and encourage improvement projects and work instruction feedback that decrease touch-time, improve quality, or reduce safety risk

Drive basic preventive maintenance across the facility

Accountable for the team training and conformance to health and safety policies and procedures, including use of proper PPE

Assembly of structures including setup, bonding and fastener applications

Laminate assemblies by determining proper placement of composite materials

Prepare parts for bagging, including placement of bleeders, thermocouples, probes and vacuum connections

Vacuum bag processing, bonding, and oven/autoclave curing

Making basic layouts on parts or assemblies in order to establish reference points and to check dimensions using calipers, micrometers, precision scales and torque wrenches

Fitting of Honeycomb, foam and syntactic core

Fitting and refurbishment of thermal protection systems.

Integration of mechanical hardware

Perform other standard composite and integration building techniques and practices as industries such as aerospace, space and other composite workplaces demand.

You may be requested to work on other products for Rocket Lab in the local area or travel as required.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

10+ years of experience in mechanical troubleshooting, assembly, installation, or repair within a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment

High School Diploma or GED

Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools

Experience leading a team in a production environment

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Composite or lamination experience

Experienced in Core bond and Splicing

Broad Industry manufacturing experience from previous appointments

Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge

Resin infusion knowledge

Experience working with material data sheets

Familiarity working with and conforming to drilling, laminating, and assembly prints

Must be certified or able to become certified in all composites work centers

Experience training and mentoring composite technicians on industry standards and specific processes

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces

Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, 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, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment

Lift, c…