Incoming Quality Control (IQC) Inspector III – Mechanical

About Rocket LabRocket 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 to 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.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!INCOMING QUALITY CONTROL (IQC) III - MECHANICALAs a Incoming Quality Control (IQC) Inspector III – Mechanical based at Rocket Lab’s site in Middle River, Maryland, you will support critical inspection activities that ensure all incoming and in‑process hardware meets the highest standards of aerospace quality. In this role, you will perform mechanical inspections, validate drawing requirements, and ensure flight hardware requiring receiving inspection is compliant before entering production. To be successful in this role, you must be detail‑oriented, skilled in precision measurement, and thrive in a fast‑paced environment where accuracy and urgency are essential. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!What You’ll Get To DoInspect incoming flight hardware and verify compliance with engineering drawings and specificationsReview documentation packages and ensure all required paperwork is complete and accurateEvaluate drawing requirements and initiate NCRs for any non‑conformancesPerform mechanical inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measurement toolsApply GD&T principles and interpret engineering blueprintsSupport inspection of composite components and large structuresWork in a fast‑paced environment that may require long days and weekend supportYou’ll Bring These Qualifications5+ years of experience in aerospace or equivalent inspectionHigh school diploma or equivalentStrong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretationProficiency with mechanical measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.)Ability to inspect incoming flight hardware and review documentation packagesExperience evaluating drawing requirements and issuing NCRsAbility to work in a fast‑paced environment with extended hours as neededThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To HaveExperience with CMM and laser tracker systemsFamiliarity with Inspire and PolyWorks softwareExperience with NDT scanningBackground performing critical alignments on large structuresExperience working with composite materialsAdditional RequirementsSpecific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focusRegularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate a computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writingMust be physically able to commute between buildingsOccasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levelsLevel and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, and free snacks/drinks onsite.Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.Base Pay Range (MD Only)$26—$33 USDWhat To ExpectWe’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 InformationFOR 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.