Senior Technical Trainer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.
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!
SENIOR TRAINER
The Senior Trainer will be based out of Rocket Lab’s Space Structures Complex in Middle River MD. The Senior Trainer develops and delivers hands-on training to ensure technicians are proficient in aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and repair processes while meeting safety, quality, and regulatory standards. This role partners with engineering, quality, and production teams to assess skills, address process gaps, and promote continuous improvement on the shop floor.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO TO DO:
Develop and deliver training programs for aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and repair processes
Train personnel on aerospace-grade materials, including prepregs, resins, fibers, core materials, and adhesives
Ensure training emphasizes compliance with aerospace standards, engineering drawings, and specifications (e.g., FAA, AS9100)
Create and maintain work instructions, visual aids, and training documentation aligned with aerospace quality requirements
Evaluate technician proficiency through practical assessments, on-the-job observations, and skills certifications
Support onboarding, recurrent training, and cross-training of composite technicians
Collaborate with engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to address defects, rework, and process improvements
Troubleshoot composite manufacturing issues and incorporate lessons learned into training content
Promote a strong culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement on the production floor
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma and 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or related industry
Experience in training and developing and implementing learning strategies
Must be certified or able to become certified in all composites work centers
Intermediate Math Skills
Experience training and mentoring newer technicians on industry standards and specific processes
Expert knowledge of the following tool use and demonstrated capability to apply them to achieve complex composite assemblies:
Pneumatic tools
Caliper
Micrometers
Hand tools
Power tools
Precision measurement instruments
Familiarity working with and conforming to drilling, laminating, and assembly prints
Experience working with material data sheets
Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing complex projects within a rapidly evolving environment.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Broad Industry manufacturing experience from previous appointments
Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge
Resin infusion knowledge
BS Degree Learning/Training Development
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
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
Respirator Use: Must be able to wear a respirator as required for certain tasks and environments.
Heavy Lifting: Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, up to 50 lbs. as part of regular job duties.
Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating lift trucks, scissor lifts and other support equipment as needed for various tasks.
Working at Heights: Comfortable and capable of working at heights, including on scaffolding and elevated platforms.
Physical Movements: Ability to perform a wide range of physical movements, including bending, squatting, and other essential motions, to efficiently and safely complete job tasks. This includes maintaining flexibility and stamina to handle repetitive actions and dynamic work environments.
Overtime: Willingness to work overtime as needed, including during the week and on weekends, to meet project deadlines and operational needs.
Level 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)
$30—$39 USD
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 employmen