Opto-Mechanical Technician I/II
Rocket Lab
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 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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.
Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions
OPTO-MECHCANICAL TECHNICIAN I/II
Based at Rocket Lab's site in Toronto, Canada, the Opto-Mechanical Technician will be responsible for the integration of spacecraft precision attitude determination and control products, which are comprised of mechanical, electrical, and optical subassemblies. The successful candidate will assemble, inspect, and perform other duties associated with building products from Rocket Lab’s star tracker and reaction wheel product lines. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!
(Please note: this position can be hired at the Opto-Mechanical Technician I or Opto-Mechanical Technician II level.)
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
- Mechanical integration of space hardware in a clean environment
- Mechanical integration of electrical subassemblies into mechanical housings
- Mechanical integration and focusing of opto-mechanical subassemblies
- Functional and performance testing of reaction wheel and star tracker subassemblies and units
- Final inspection (mass and photography) of parts, subassemblies, and integrated units
- Inspection, dimensional verification of lenses and fit check of machined and 3D printed components and subassemblies
- Bulk cleaning of components using ultrasonic cleaner and manual cleaning using isopropanol
- Controlled application of staking compounds (epoxy and/or Loctite)
- Xray inspection of integrated optical subassemblies
- Documentation of all activities and collected data
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN OPTO-MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN I:
- HS Diploma or GED
- Skilled in micro‑manipulation of small parts, maintaining steady control and accuracy with fine tweezers during delicate assembly tasks.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN OPTO-MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN II:
- 2+ years of experience with precision opto-mechanical integration
- HS Diploma or GED
- Skilled in micro‑manipulation of small parts, maintaining steady control and accuracy with fine tweezers during delicate assembly tasks.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience working with high-reliability, aerospace, or spacecraft components
- Excellent vision at close range (with or without corrective lenses)
- Experience with machined aluminum components, bearings, and optics
- Ability to use digital or analog calipers/micrometer/dial gauge to measure critical dimensions
- Ability to use a torque wrench
- Ability to use an optical microscope (4-20x magnification range)
- Ability to interpret and follow technical instructions supplemented by verbal instruction
- General proficiency with computers (Windows OS) and file management
- Experience with using MATLAB/Python or similar scripting programs/languages
- Familiarity with cleanroom/cleanbench best practices
- Familiarity with best practices for working with ESD-sensitive hardware
- Highly organized and able to work independently with strong attention to detail
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, 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.
