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Vice President, Space Systems Software

Littleton, CO

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

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.

VICE PRESIDENT, SPACE SYSTEMS SOFTWARE

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Vice President, Space Systems Software to lead our satellite flight and ground software organization. This leadership role is responsible for driving strategy execution, revenue growth, operational excellence, and innovation within this business area. The VP will oversee all aspects of the segment, including growth strategy, product development, program execution, team leadership, and financial performance, while ensuring alignment with the company’s overall strategic goals.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leadership, management, and scaling software businesses, preferably in the aerospace, satellite, or related industries. This role requires a visionary leader with strong technical acumen, exceptional people skills, and the ability to inspire and lead cross-functional teams.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Strategic Leadership:
    • Develop and execute the business unit’s strategic plan to achieve revenue growth, market share expansion, and profitability targets.
    • Identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, customer needs, and competitive opportunities in satellite flight and ground software.
    • Understand the needs of key satellite customers, including the U.S. Government, and ensure the growth strategy aligns with future market and customer needs.
    • Collaborate with executive leadership to align the business unit’s goals with the company’s overall vision and strategy.
  • Revenue Growth & Business Development:
    • Drive revenue growth by working with the Business Development team to identify new opportunities, expand existing customer relationships, and enter new markets.
    • Cultivate relationships with key customers, industry partners, and stakeholders to build long-term business opportunities.
  • Product & Technology Leadership:
    • Oversee the development and delivery of innovative satellite flight and ground software solutions that meet customer requirements and industry standards.
    • Ensure the business unit remains at the forefront of technology advancements, including AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions.
    • Collaborate with engineering and product teams to prioritize product roadmaps and ensure timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
  • Operational Excellence:
    • Drive operational efficiency across the business unit, including resource allocation, process optimization, and cost management.
    • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and ensure accountability across teams.
    • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation.
  • Team Leadership:
    • Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team across product development, engineering, operations, and program management.
    • Promote a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and professional development.
    • Inspire and motivate teams to achieve ambitious goals and deliver exceptional results.
  • Financial Management:
    • Own the P&L for the organization, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
    • Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans to support strategic objectives.
    • Provide regular reporting and insights to executive leadership on business unit performance.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, computer science, or other field.
    • 12+ years of experience in leadership roles, with a focus on business development, strategy execution, and/or revenue growth with a focus on software products.
    • Proven experience leading software businesses.
    • U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Skills & Competencies:
    • Exceptional leadership skills, with a track record of driving revenue growth.
    • Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
    • Strong financial acumen, including P&L management and budgeting.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • MBA or advanced degree in engineering or computer science.
  • Active security clearance.
  • Previous experience partnering with government agencies, commercial satellite operators, and/or defense contractors.
  • Experience leading software businesses in the aerospace or satellite industries.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to satellite software and operations.
  • Deep understanding of satellite flight software, ground software, and/or related technologies.
  • Knowledge of emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and cloud computing in the aerospace domain.
  • Excellent leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
  • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers, partners, and internal stakeholders.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • 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. 

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (CO Only)

$210,000 - $300,000 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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