Opto-Mechanical Technician I​/II

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.

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!

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Please note:

this position can be hired at the Opto‑Mechanical Technician I or Opto‑Mechanical Technician II level.)

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.

• 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

• HS Diploma or GED
• Skilled in micro‑manipulation of small parts, maintaining steady control and accuracy with fine tweezers during delicate assembly tasks.

• 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/clean bench…