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Head of Ground Software

Long Beach, California, United States

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

HEAD OF GROUND SOFTWARE 

Rocket Lab is seeking a Head of Ground Software to lead the development and execution of our ground software infrastructure, supporting mission-critical space-to-ground communications, ground data infrastructure, mission operations, and spacecraft production. This role is based at our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, and is pivotal in shaping the software product and ecosystem that supports Rocket Lab’s space systems and missions. 

As a senior technical leader, you will drive strategic direction, architecture, product, and execution of ground software systems and operations while managing a high-performing team of engineers in CA and CO. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, program management, related disciplines, and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of ground systems with flight operations. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

  • Define and execute the strategic roadmap for ground software systems, ensuring scalability, security, performance, and mission reliability.
  • Own the architecture and development of end-to-end ground software solutions, including mission control, telemetry processing, data security, spacecraft production software, and RF/network infrastructure.
  • Establish and maintain technical budgets, system requirements, and verification techniques to optimize vehicle-ground integration.
  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams to develop advanced simulations, analysis tools, and testing methodologies.
  • Partner with program and product management to align software capabilities with mission objectives and company goals.
  • Drive innovation in ground software, ensuring adoption of modern technologies, automation, and secure data handling practices.
  • Develop key documentation, including interface specifications, CONOPS, licensing, and design frameworks. 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
  • 12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including ground systems and mission operations.
  • 8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs.
  • Expertise in secure ground data systems, with knowledge of RF and network infrastructure.
  • Expertise in microservice software development.
  • Expertise in time-series and relational databases.
  • Expertise in Python and other software languages
  • Expertise in Angular and other front-end frameworks
  • Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations. 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

  • PhD or advanced degree in a related technical field.
  • Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including ADCS, EPS, space-ground communications, and C&DH.
  • Strong background in orbital mechanics, orbit determination, space environment modeling, COLA, and rigid body dynamics.
  • Proficiency in STK, GMAT, or similar space mission analysis tools.
  • Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS).
  • Experience with MBSE and process automation.
  • Experience with UI and UX development.
  • Experience with AI/ML.
  • Experience with operations procedure development, management, and execution.
  • Hands-on experience with satellite operations, subsystem testing, and HITL validation.
  • Ability to navigate a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with competing priorities. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Must be able to work in a technical and operational environment, including travel as required.
  • Ability to collaborate with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive mission success. 

This is a rare opportunity to lead and shape Rocket Lab’s ground software vision, driving the next generation of mission-critical space operations. If you are a proven leader with deep expertise in aerospace software, we want to hear from you! 

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, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

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 (CA Only)

$140,000 - $220,000 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 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.

 

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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.

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