ROCKET Lab is fast becoming the largest employer in Mahia, with 15 direct employees based in the area. At least one other business has already expanded due to spin-off traffic from the aerospace company’s location on the peninsula.

Rocket Lab is now seeking three more applicants for Mahia-based positions at its Onenui-based Launch Complex 1 facility, ahead of upcoming test launches, and Rocket Lab vice-president of launch Shaun D’Mello said successful candidates would play important roles in New Zealand’s first orbital launch attempt.

The company needed a fitter and turner, a logistics co-ordinator and a launch range technician, and encouraged people from Mahia, Wairoa and Gisborne to apply.

“There is a growing need for both technical and administrative staff to support launch activities from Launch Complex 1.

“The majority of our work is done at Launch Complex 1, so we’re out on the peninsula every day working in all weather conditions. We’re looking for passionate, dedicated people who can work hard to help us reach our goal of making space accessible.”

Role descriptions and links to apply for open positions are available via Rocket Lab’s website (rocketlab.co.nz).

A spokeswoman said Rocket Lab had been thrilled with the reaction of the local community since the launch complex opened last year. Two public information sessions in Mahia two weeks ago each attracted about 100 people. With the company’s employees coming and going from the site, as well as visitors, there had been extra business spin-offs for a local cafe.

Rocket Cafe“Cafe Mahia rebranded as Rocket Cafe a couple of weeks ago. The owner has new signage up and she has changed the menu, so that’s exciting, and she employed five new staff.”

A date for the company’s first test launch had still to be locked in but it would be in “upcoming months”.

“Everything’s going really well. It’s looking really good but we’re going to go when we’re ready, we’re not going to cut any corners.”

Residents in the area would be advised directly by email of an imminent launch.

Rocket Lab’s mission is to make space accessible by providing frequent, affordable launches to low Earth orbit. Rocket Lab was founded in 2006 by New Zealander Peter Beck and in 2009 launched Atea 1, the first rocket to reach space from the Southern Hemisphere.

In 2016 Rocket Lab opened New Zealand’s first orbital launch site, Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1, on the Mahia Peninsula. From the site the company will launch Electron, a rocket designed to deliver small satellites to low Earth orbit. Rocket Lab’s customers use these satellites to provide services including internet from space, optimised crop monitoring, improved weather reporting, natural disaster prediction, up-to-date maritime data and search and rescue services.

Customers signed to fly on Electron rockets include NASA, Planet, Spire and Moon Express.