Senior Communications Advisor

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!

SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS ADVISOR 

The Senior Communications Advisor will play a key role in executing marketing and communications strategies for Rocket Lab. This is a rare opportunity to join a globally significant space company at a pivotal time in the company’s history as we approach the first launch of our new launch vehicle, Neutron. Reporting to the VP – Marketing & Communications, you’ll work closely with communications, creative, business development and product teams, as well as executive leadership.  You’ll combine creativity, tenacity, and business acumen to bring Rocket Lab’s story to life and help shape a generational brand.

This is a busy role where you can expect to roll your sleeves up and get hands-on with the work, whether it’s flexing your copywriting skills developing press releases, coordinating a film shoot, pitching news stories, drafting webcast scripts, developing key messaging documents, or running an event. 

This is a 12-month fixed term role designed to provide additional capability over a parental leave period and an exceptionally busy time within the business across key projects. The role is based in Auckland, NZ. Limited domestic travel required.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Develop and implement comprehensive marketing and communications campaigns for launches and spacecraft programs.
• Develop compelling written content spanning press releases, newsletters, internal updates, scripts, social media and web content, product information etc.
• Develop messaging and communications materials tailored for a diverse group of audiences spanning team, customers, media, investors and community stakeholders.
• Work closely with the video content producer and graphic designer to develop digital media assets to support communications campaigns.
• Prepare executives with rehearsals, scripts, media training etc.
• Support launch campaigns with media materials, customer engagement, and team communications.
• Keep your finger on the pulse of the space landscape and how Rocket Lab is differentiating itself. Identify gaps and opportunities to strengthen our efforts. Contribute creative ideas and proactive solutions.
• Help plan and support events, including all-hands, press events, and announcements.
• Partner with departments to ensure consistency in internal communications.
• Manage reactive media inquiries and proactively pitch stories.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of experience in an external communications role.
• Experience working in a high-performing team to deliver exceptional results.
• Exceptional writing skills. Ability to translate complicated ideas into language tailored to key audiences with different needs.
• Proven media engagement experience.
• Obsessive attention to detail.
• Proven ability to juggle multiple projects and deliver to tight deadlines.
• Highly proactive with a creative and problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to understand complex problems and develop effective communications at breakneck pace.
• Proven track record of collaborating with cross-functional teams and managing varied stakeholders.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Space, tech, and/or defense experience.
• Experience at a fast-paced technology company or start-up.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience in film, photography and/or editing.
• Experience with social media.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willingness to travel.
• Must be willing to work some weekends to support launch operations and critical project timelines.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

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.