Propulsion Assembly Technician II/III - B Shift Verified today

Rocket Lab · Long Beach, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-10-08

About the Role

Based in Rocket Lab's Long Beach headquarters, you will build sub-assemblies for the Rutherford rocket engine. The engine consists of a thrust chamber, pumps, valves, plumbing, TVC actuators, motor controllers, and other mechanical components. You will support the Propulsion Production Manager and Production organization with deliverables for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

What You'll Do

  • Build turbo pumps and rocket engines
  • Test rocket hardware
  • Work on a high caliber cross-functional team
  • Watch the hardware you build make fire and go to space

Qualifications for Propulsion Assembly Technician II

  • 2+ years of mechanical assembly experience in aviation, aerospace, or similar industry
  • Talented with mechanical assembly tools (pressure testing equipment, welding preparation)
  • Talented with electrical assembly tools (bench testing and measuring instruments)
  • High school diploma or GED

Qualifications for Propulsion Assembly Technician III

  • 5+ years of mechanical assembly experience in aviation, aerospace, or similar industry
  • Talented with mechanical assembly tools (pressure testing equipment, welding preparation)
  • Talented with electrical assembly tools (bench testing and measuring instruments)
  • High school diploma or GED

Nice to Have

  • 8+ years of mechanical assembly and/or mechanical fitting experience
  • Experience performing torquing, safety and lock wire installation, assembly per work instructions, and environment tests (proof and leak)
  • A&P, trade, or industry certification
  • Experience with in-space mechanical assemblies
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and continued product development

Physical Requirements

  • Willing to work Monday to Thursday, 3:15pm to 1:45am
  • Able to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
  • Must be able to climb ladders and work comfortably in tight spaces
  • Able to stand or walk for extended periods, minimum 8 hours
  • May be required to stoop, bend, crawl, climb ladders, and maneuver in confined areas
  • Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls

Compensation and Benefits

Hourly pay range (CA only): $25-$40 USD. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Benefits include industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (15% discount), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, zero cost HDHP with HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on merchandise, and various employee discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status.

Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (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.