Test Operations Mechanical Technician II, III, Senior
Rocketlab · Stennis Space Center, MS · Posted Jul 1, 2026
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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.
TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II, III or SENIOR – C D SHIFT
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 test efforts.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Build facility systems of tubing, piping and mechanical structures
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
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
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
(This position can be hired as a Technician II, III or Senior level)
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II:
2+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil gas, or heavy industry.
High School diploma or GED
Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems.
A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN III:
5+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil gas, or heavy industry.
High School diploma or GED
Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems.
A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR TEST OPERATIONS MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN:
8+ years experience in facility operations in aerospace, oil gas, or heavy industry.
High School diploma or GED
Demonstrated experience building and activating facility systems.
A background in collaborative work to accomplish difficult tasks
Experience with high pressure gas and cryogenic systems
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Experience operating and/or building rocket engine test stands or large industrial complexes
Knowledge of broad industry processes for pressure systems and cleanliness. i.e. (NASA, US Air Force, Department of Defense, ASME or other regulatory agency).
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
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 trade disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasio…