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Propulsion Assembly Technician II/III - A Shift Verified today

Rocket Lab · Long Beach, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-07-24

About the Role

Based at Rocket Lab's Long Beach headquarters, you will build sub-assemblies for the Rutherford rocket engine. The engine consists of thrust chambers, 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

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

Qualifications for Technician II Level

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

Qualifications for Technician III Level

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

Nice to Have

  • 8 or more 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

  • Work Monday through Thursday, 5:00am to 3:30pm
  • Stand for long periods of time
  • Climb up and down ladders
  • Bend, grasp, sit, pull, push, stoop, and stretch
  • Lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
  • Work in tight spaces
  • Move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls
  • Walk or stand for extended periods, 8 hours minimum
  • Crawl and maneuver in tight spaces

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range for California: $25-40 USD per hour. Level and base salary determined case-by-case based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Benefits include company equity, top-tier medical HMO and PPO with 100% company-sponsored HSA option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays, flexible and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) with company match, discounted stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Required Authorization

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including ITAR, you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or Department of Commerce.

Propulsion Assembly Technician at Rocket Lab | Flight Proven Space