Senior Quality Inspector - Avionics

SPACE SYSTEMS 

 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. 

SENIOR QUALITY INSPECTOR – AVIONICS 

Rocket Lab is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Senior Quality Inspector - Avionics to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for performing inspections using prescribed criteria to ensure our products meet the highest engineering and production standards. Your ability to identify non-conformances, solve problems, and communicate effectively will be critical in driving continuous improvement and maintaining the highest quality standards. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Conduct complex inspections of electronic and electrical components, including purchased parts, PCBAs, wire harnesses, electro-mechanical assemblies, and other avionics systems. 
• Develop and follow detailed work instructions for receiving inspections of PCBAs, harnesses, electro-mechanical components/assemblies, and test reports. 
• Identify and document issues and non-conformances in Rocket Lab’s internal quality monitoring systems, including the Issue Tracking System, Manufacturing Execution System (MES), and/or ERP systems. 
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to address and resolve quality concerns. 
• Support internal audits and prepare production areas for external audits, including tracking and closing corrective action requests. 
• Monitor and ensure compliance with tool calibration systems and maintain calibration tracking. 
• Promote a “Built-in Quality” philosophy by consistently detecting and addressing non-conformances to prevent defects from reaching downstream customers. 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 8+ years of experience working in quality assurance role in an electronics manufacturing environment 
• Current IPC-A-610 certification 
• Current or previous IPC/WHMA-A-620C and/or AC 43.13 certification 
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams. 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Familiar with ISO9000 and/or AS9100 requirements  
• Experience with IPC J-STD-001 with space addendum 
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written 
• Active U.S. Security Clearance or the ability to obtain one 
• Experience working on flight hardware, satellites, or other high-reliability systems  
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to producing work of the highest accuracy.  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Ability to work one of the following shifts:
  • 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM Monday – Thursday 
• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods 
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed 
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision 
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed 
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas.