ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more. Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights! 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. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! A&P MECHANIC I, II, SENIOR We are currently seeking certified A&P Mechanics at several experience levels to join our team. A&P Technicians will be based out of Rocket Lab's Space Structures Complex in Middle River, MD. The A&P Technicians will play a crucial part in build and assembly of Neutron launch vehicle components, will also play a key role in the refurbishment of previously flown launch vehicles. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: • Work on a high caliber cross functional team • Building carbon fiber structures, mechanical structures and related components • Watch the hardware you build evolve into a completed Rocket and go to space. • Uphold shop cleanliness and organization • Utilize Proper PPE • Integration of Mechanical Hardware NOTE: This requisition can be hired at a Mechanic Level I, II or Senior. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN A&P MECHANIC I: • High School Diploma or GED with 2+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance • A&P License or relevant Military experience in fixed or rotor wing maintenance. • Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN A&P MECHANIC II: • High School Diploma or GED with 5+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance • A&P License or relevant Military experience in fixed or rotor wing maintenance.. • Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR A&P MECHANIC: • High School Diploma or GED with 8+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, technical repair, mechanical maintenance or similar in a highly regulated manufacturing or maintenance • A&P License or relevant Military experience in fixed or rotor wing maintenance. • Familiarity with hand, power, pneumatic, and inspection tools THESE QUALIFICATION WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: • A&P certification or relevant Military experience • 2+ years experience in new space or aerospace industry • Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge • Resin infusion knowledge • Experience conforming to drilling, laminating, assembly prints and material data sheets. • Have done depo level mechanic work on aircraft • Military field experience is a significant advantage • Experience with scheduled maintenance at the C&D check level ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: • Must be certified or able to become certified in two composite work centers • Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders and work platforms, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position • Able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted • Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces. • Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls. • Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours min • Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces 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.
See More Details >>At Vast, our mission is to contribute to a future where billions of people are living and thriving in space. We are building artificial gravity space stations, allowing long-term stays in space without the adverse effects of zero-gravity. Our initial crewed space habitat will be Haven-1, scheduled to be the world's first commercial space station when it launches into low earth orbit in May 2026. Our team is all-in, committed to executing our mission safely and on time. If you want to work with the most talented people on Earth furthering space exploration for humanity, come join us. Vast is looking for a Mechanical Engineer reporting to the Structures Department to help us with the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach, CA location. The Structures team covers a wide range of components and responsibilities: from the primary pressure hull, to MMOD shielding, establishing loads and Factors of Safety, as well as supporting other teams mechanical design needs across the company. Responsibilities: • Own the design of primary and secondary structures on a large scale space station. • Develop an understanding of static and dynamic loads, vibrations, thermal and other environmental considerations to drive design decisions. • Perform mechanical design and analysis, develop manufacturing drawings, test plans, and concept of operations and follow hardware through the entire process. • Lead trades and own interfaces with all sub systems. • Work with fabricators and technicians to improve designs, develop processes and resolve issues. Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or physics. • 3+ years experience with CAD and FEA software packages. • 3+ years of experience designing and developing mechanical components or systems. Preferred Skills & Experience: • Design of structures and components for a high-performance vehicle or spacecraft. • Proactive problem-solving skills such as failure analysis and root cause investigation. • Prior experience in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. • Design work in recent versions of NX, Teamcenter. • Analysis work in recent versions of Ansys, FeMap/Nastran, Abaqus. • Experience with GD&T implementation and analysis (ASME Y14.5). • Familiarity with spacecraft specifications such as SMC-S-016, NASA-STD-5001. Pay Ranges: • Mechanical Engineer I: $80,000 - $110,000 • Mechanical Engineer II: $100,000 - $140,000 • Senior Mechanical Engineer: $135,000 - $170,000 • Staff Mechanical Engineer: $160,000 - $200,000 COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS Base salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, flexible paid time off for exempt staff and up to 10 days of vacation for non-exempt staff, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, One Medical membership, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees. U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
See More Details >>At Vast, our mission is to contribute to a future where billions of people are living and thriving in space. We are building artificial gravity space stations, allowing long-term stays in space without the adverse effects of zero-gravity. Our initial crewed space habitat will be Haven-1, scheduled to be the world’s first commercial space station when it launches into low earth orbit in May 2026. Our team is all-in, committed to executing our mission safely and on time. If you want to work with the most talented people on Earth furthering space exploration for humanity, come join us. Vast is looking for a Harness Design Engineer II, reporting to the VP, Avionics, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and manufacturing of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. Responsibilities • Develop the electro-mechanical design of flight wire harnesses for the Haven space station. • Develop the electro-mechanical design of development and test harnesses to support qualification testing efforts. • Meet with multidisciplinary stakeholders to gather harness design objectives and requirements. • Develop harness design and routing solutions with a 3D NX CAD environment. • Provide great flight wire harness and vehicle/system level documentation • Perform analysis and physical testing of harnessing with respect to thermal, loads, vibration, and shock to ensure full qualification for flight. • Document and communicate the design, analysis, and testing results thoroughly and clearly through the use of design reviews. • Interface with harness production and integration teams to ensure final harness designs can be produced and installed on schedule in accordance with overall project goals. • Perform R&D investigations and trade studies to push wire harness design to new boundaries in terms of capabilities, mass savings, cost savings. Minimum Qualifications • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or other engineering discipline • 2+ years of experience in design focused roles • 1+ years of experience with wire harness 3D design, wiring diagrams, and formboard creation. Preferred Skills & Experience • Experience designing harnesses to IPC/WHMA-A-620, IPC/WHMA-A-620-S, and NASA-STD-8739.4. • Strong team working skills with a proven ability to effectively interact and collaborate with other engineering disciplines and excellent attention to detail. • 1+ years of experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter. • Wire harness component selection and qualification experience. • General wire harness analysis, testing, and qualification experience. • 1+ years of experience with harness design and manufacturing documentation. • Capability to solve complex design problems within tight schedules and minimal supervision. • Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and space exploration, with a strong desire to revolutionize wire harness design. • Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding startup atmosphere. • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal. • Strong sense of personal accountability and drive to succeed. Additional Requirements • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time • Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted Salary Range: California $110,000—$145,000 USD Compensation And Benefits Base salary will vary depending on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, as well as access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, flexible paid time off for exempt staff and up to 10 days of vacation for non-exempt staff, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, One Medical membership, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks. We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge, and lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees. U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. • 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This status includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
See More Details >>Embarking on a career in the mechanical trade typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining practical experience with structured learning over a period of about four to five years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports over 3 million mechanical trades professionals nationwide, and ongoing demand driven by sectors such as manufacturing and construction in Long Beach, CA. The average weekly wage for a mechanical trade worker in Long Beach, CA hovers around $1,800, offering an annual earning potential surpassing $94,000 for experienced professionals. Programs through vocational schools, unions, and platforms like Apprenticeship.gov can guide aspiring mechanical trades professionals, leading to a fulfilling career with robust financial rewards.
