Mechanical Technician II

Overview

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, and satellite components to enable ambitious missions worldwide. Our Electron rocket, a leading U.S. launcher, has deployed over 230 satellites, with upcoming projects like the Neutron reusable launch vehicle focused on larger deployments. Our Space Systems division manufactures spacecraft, payloads, and components for landmark missions including NASA's lunar and Martian explorations and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Summary

Located in Toronto, Ontario, the Mechanical Technician II is responsible for assembling and integrating precision spacecraft attitude control and determination products. This role involves working with mechanical, electrical, and optical subassemblies primarily for star tracker and reaction wheel product lines. Join a dedicated team aiming to overcome complex space challenges and contribute to pioneering space technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Integrate mechanical space hardware within cleanroom conditions.
• Install electrical subassemblies into mechanical casings.
• Assemble and align opto-mechanical components.
• Perform functional and performance evaluations of reaction wheels and star trackers.
• Conduct final inspections, including mass measurements and photography of parts and assemblies.
• Install ball bearings into reaction wheel assemblies.
• Apply lubricants carefully to rotary parts.
• Shim reaction wheels precisely to manage clearances and bearing preload.
• Clean components using ultrasonic methods and manual isopropanol cleaning.
• Occasionally adjust or rework production fixtures and assemblies.
• Apply staking compounds such as epoxy or Loctite with controlled technique.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all work and data collected.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least two years of experience in precision mechanical assembly.
• Superior fine motor coordination, including adeptness with small tools like tweezers.
• Excellent close vision capability, with or without corrective lenses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in aerospace or spacecraft hardware assembly for high-reliability products.
• Experience handling machined aluminum, bearings, and optical parts.
• Proficient in using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and dial gauges.
• Skillful with tools including drill presses and hand drills.
• Competent in using torque wrenches.
• Familiarity with optical microscopes (magnification 4-20x).
• Ability to interpret and follow complex technical and verbal instructions.
• Knowledge of cleanroom and ESD-safe practices.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently with exacting attention to detail.

Additional Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Capacity to stand and walk for full shifts of 8 or more hours.
• Able to climb ladders and maneuver in confined, elevated, or awkward spaces.
• Perform repetitive actions such as bending, twisting, and reaching.
• Manual dexterity to precisely operate various hand tools and instruments.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Work in diverse environments including production floors and field settings exposed to noise, varying temperatures, and machinery.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, or varying shifts as needed.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range in Ontario is $47,000 to $63,000 CAD annually, subject to qualifications and experience. In addition to base pay, employees may qualify for stock options, cash incentives, discounted stock purchase programs, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, RRSP retirement plans, paid leave, and employee discounts.

Company Culture

Rocket Lab thrives on innovation, teamwork, and dedication, tackling challenging space missions with grit and collaborative spirit. Our employees prioritize results, support one another, and adapt to work in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments.

Important Compliance Information

Employment eligibility varies by location due to export control laws such as ITAR in the U.S. Candidates must meet citizenship or residency requirements accordingly. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer prohibiting discrimination on numerous protected grounds. Accommodation resources are available for applicants with disabilities.