How to Be Launch Vehicle Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 15, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Launch Vehicle Technician is a vital role in the aerospace industry responsible for the safe and successful launch of vehicles. They perform a variety of tasks such as inspecting and testing rocket systems, checking components and wiring, and coordinating with other technicians to ensure everything is operational. The Technician also works closely with engineers to ensure a safe launch and to ensure all safety protocols are followed.

The consequences of having an inadequate Launch Vehicle Technician can be severe and can include catastrophic failure, loss of payload, or even loss of life. As such, it is vital that they are highly knowledgeable and experienced in the field, have excellent judgement and problem solving skills, and understand the importance of safety regulations.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. In order to become a Launch Vehicle Technician, you must have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Pursue an Associates Degree in Aerospace Technology. Pursuing an associates degree in aerospace technology can provide you with the necessary knowledge and training to become a Launch Vehicle Technician. Associates degrees typically take two years to complete and courses may include aerospace science and engineering, propulsion systems, flight dynamics, aerospace manufacturing and maintenance and aircraft structures.
Obtain On-the-Job Training. Many employers providing Launch Vehicle Technician positions require applicants to have prior experience or on-the-job training. Look for opportunities to gain experience through internships, apprenticeship programs and job shadowing.
Obtain Certification. Obtaining certification shows potential employers that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the duties of a Launch Vehicle Technician. There are a variety of certification programs available from organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AAIA) and the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).
Continue Education. To keep up with the changing technology and advancements in the field, it is important for Launch Vehicle Technicians to remain current with their knowledge and skills. Continuing education courses are available from various organizations and universities.

Keeping updated and capable as a Launch Vehicle Technician requires a commitment to staying abreast of industry developments, training, and best practices. Regularly attending training sessions, workshops, and seminars can help ensure that technicians are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to keep current with the latest technology and trends. regularly reviewing technical reports, manuals, and other industry resources can help technicians stay informed of changes in the field.

Furthermore, staying engaged with colleagues in the industry by participating in professional networks can help technicians stay connected with peers and share information on advancements. By making a commitment to continual learning and professional development, Launch Vehicle Technicians can remain up to date and capable.

You may want to check Astrodynamicist, Astronomer-Data Analyst, and Spacecraft Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect and assemble launch vehicles, components, and systems.
Monitor and troubleshoot launch vehicle systems during test operations.
Perform mechanical and electrical maintenance on launch vehicles and components.
Ensure launch vehicle compliance with applicable regulations and procedures.
Develop and maintain launch vehicle databases and records.
Perform pre-flight inspections of launch vehicles to ensure safety and compliance.
Document, analyze, and report launch vehicle performance data.
Assist in the design and implementation of launch vehicle modifications.
Provide technical support to launch operations personnel.
Monitor launch vehicle operations for safety, accuracy, and efficiency.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of rocket propulsion systems
Knowledge of launch vehicle guidance and control systems
Ability to use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and repair launch vehicle components
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and engineering drawings
Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols for working with hazardous materials
Ability to work in a team environment and take initiative
Ability to prioritize tasks and adjust to changing circumstances
Excellent communication skills
Attention to detail
Knowledge of basic computer operation and software applications

Launching a rocket into space is an extremely complex and precise process, and having an experienced Launch Vehicle Technician is essential in order to ensure a successful mission. The technician must possess a wide range of knowledge and skills in order to properly prepare and launch the rocket, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineering abilities. This technical expertise is necessary to understand how to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair any potential issues that may arise.

they must have an in-depth understanding of the various launch systems, from the propulsion system to the guidance system, as well as the launch vehicles overall design. Finally, it is essential for the technician to have good communication skills so that they can coordinate effectively with the mission control team in order to make sure that all pre-launch preparations are completed on time and without any errors. All of these skills combined make the Launch Vehicle Technician an integral part of any successful space mission.

Astrometric Observer, Aerospace Technician Instructor, and Interplanetary Navigation Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in launch vehicle operation and maintenance?
What do you consider to be the most important aspect of launch vehicle technician work?
How would you handle a complex technical issue with a launch vehicle?
Describe how you would troubleshoot a malfunctioning system on a launch vehicle.
How familiar are you with safety protocols for launch vehicle operations?
How would you respond to a request from engineers to modify a launch vehicle system?
What challenges have you encountered in your experience as a launch vehicle technician?
Describe a time when you had to debug a complex problem with a launch vehicle.
Have you ever had to explain complex technical concepts related to launch vehicles to non-technical people?
How do you stay current with new developments in the field of launch vehicle technology?

Common Tools in Industry

Socket Wrench Set. A set of wrenches designed to work with fasteners of various sizes and shapes. (e. g. Ratcheting Socket Wrench Set)
Hex Keys. A tool used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. (e. g. Allen Hex Key Set)
Torque Wrench. A tool used to apply a specific torque to a fastener, such as a nut or bolt. (e. g. Digital Torque Wrench)
Calipers. A precision measuring tool used to measure the length, width, or diameter of an object. (e. g. Digital Calipers)
Multimeter. An electronic device used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits. (e. g. Digital Multimeter)
Soldering Iron. A tool used to melt solder in order to join electrical components together. (e. g. Electric Soldering Iron)
Electrical Screwdriver. A tool used to drive screws into metal or plastic parts with a rotating action. (e. g. Rechargeable Electric Screwdriver)
Crimping Tool. A tool used to crimp electrical connections. (e. g. Ratcheting Crimping Tool)
Drill Bit Set. A set of drill bits designed to create holes of various sizes and shapes in materials such as wood and metal. (e. g. High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
National Space Society (NSS)
Space Technology Industry Association (STIA)
Small Satellite Alliance (SSA)
American Astronautical Society (AAS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
International Association of Space Explorers (ASE)
International Institute of Space Law (IISL)

We also have Observatory Administrator, Space Probe Designer, and Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Booster. A rocket motor which provides thrust for a launch vehicle during the first part of its flight.
Payload. The cargo or equipment carried by a launch vehicle into space.
Launch Site. The physical place where a launch vehicle is launched from.
Launch Abort System. A system designed to safely terminate a launch vehicles mission if there is an abnormality detected during the ascent phase.
Launch Window. A specific period of time in which a launch vehicle can be launched successfully.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE). Equipment used to support a launch vehicle before, during, and after launch.
Launch Vehicle Guidance System. A system used to control the trajectory of a launch vehicle throughout its flight.
Safing System. A system designed to render a launch vehicle safe if an abnormality is detected during the pre-, ascent-, or descent-phase.
Range Safety Officer. A person responsible for monitoring the safety of a launch vehicle and its payload during flight.
Flight Termination System. A system designed to safely terminate a launch vehicles mission if an abnormality is detected during the descent phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Launch Vehicle Technician?

A Launch Vehicle Technician is a professional who is responsible for the assembly, checkout, and launch operations of space launch vehicles.

What qualifications are needed to become a Launch Vehicle Technician?

To become a Launch Vehicle Technician, you must have a degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field, as well as experience in propulsion systems and working with hazardous materials.

What duties do Launch Vehicle Technicians typically perform?

Launch Vehicle Technicians typically perform tasks such as building and testing rocket engines, installing launch vehicle components, troubleshooting launch vehicle systems, preparing hazardous materials for launch, and conducting post-flight inspections.

What kind of environment do Launch Vehicle Technicians work in?

Launch Vehicle Technicians typically work in clean rooms and other controlled environments in order to ensure the safety and accuracy of their work.

How much do Launch Vehicle Technicians typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Launch Vehicle Technician is $58,297 per year.

Web Resources

Universal Technical Institute Launches Electric news.uti.edu
Orbital Launch Vehicles Roadmap - MIT Technology Roadmapping roadmaps.mit.edu
Premier Truck Group and Universal Technical Institute launch first-of-it news.uti.edu