Ion Propulsion Production & Test Technician

Ion Propulsion Production & Test Technician As an Ion Propulsion Production & Test Technician at Rocket Lab, you will operate and maintain vacuum chambers used for full‑system Ion Propulsion Acceptance Test (ATP) procedures, support thruster and Power Processing Unit (PPU) assembly, and perform sub‑system testing. What You’ll Do Operate and maintain vacuum chambers for production and testing of full ion propulsion systems, including setup, calibration, and real‑time monitoring of test parameters. Accurately execute test procedures, document results, and report anomalies or out‑of‑family data to engineering teams. Troubleshoot test failures and collaborate with production, design, and quality engineers to resolve root causes and improve processes. Perform routine preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on vacuum systems and facility equipment; maintain detailed logs and manage consumables inventory. Assemble and test precision thruster and sub‑system hardware (including PPUs), ensuring compliance with strict specifications using both common and specialized tools. Support engineering teams in troubleshooting build issues, refining maintenance procedures, and training team members as needed. Qualifications You Bring Trade or degree qualified in a relevant industry (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or similar). 4+ years of relevant industry experience. Experience operating mechanical, electrical, and automated test equipment. Familiarity with thermal systems, vacuum pumps, and pressure measurement. Precision mechanical and electrical assembly experience. Ability to troubleshoot complex electro‑mechanical systems. Comfortable working to exacting standards, including cleanliness for vacuum environments. Sound understanding of standard industry ESD policy. Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform hands‑on assembly and maintenance. Good level of eyesight and ability to inspect assemblies to a high workmanship standard. Nice to Have Experience operating vacuum chamber systems. Experience with data acquisition systems. Experience compiling concise and accurate test reports. Experience maintaining industrial equipment. Experience working with high‑voltage electronics. Strong work ethic, able to take own initiative. Ability to remain calm under pressure. Expectations Our mission to unlock the potential of space requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving ambitious goals. We expect team members who think creatively, execute diligently, and support one another in all tasks, big or small. #J-18808-Ljbffr