Senior Ground Software Engineer I - Ts/sci

Senior Ground Software Engineer I - TS/SCI

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.

Senior Ground Software Engineer I

As a Senior Ground Software Engineer I based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, CA, you will be responsible for developing cutting-edge spacecraft ground software for our various Space Systems missions, and for providing ground system development and support for internal and external customers. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Develop and evolve web-based software architecture for spacecraft operations
• Work closely with flight software developers, operations personnel, and systems engineers to understand requirements and functional needs
• Deploy and configure the Rocket Lab Ground Data System
• Establish monitoring and alerting to detect system degradation and outages
• Identify ground systems issues and provide technical insight for resolution

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of relevant work experience developing software
• 5+ years of relevant work experience developing in Python
• Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance
• Experience architecting web-based software applications

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Full-stack software development experience, including: Backend – Python and/or Golang Frontend – Typescript and/or Javascript (Angular or React) Database – InfluxDB, PostgreSQL, or equivalent
• Experience with Python web experience (FastAPI or equivalent)
• Experience with micro-service architectures
• Experience leading complete system development efforts with a team
• Ability to write clear, well-tested, and well-documented software
• Experience supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, and/or launch vehicle mission operations
• Familiarity with database design and implementation
• Experience using Git or other version control systems
• Experience with SQL
• Experience with ticketing systems like Jira, etc.
• Experience with Kubernetes orchestration
• Experience with Oauth authentication flows
• Experience in full-stack and/or web development (NodeJS, Angular, TypeScript, or equivalent)
• Experience in the aerospace industry
• Experience in CCSDS recommended standards, including Space Packet Protocol and COP-1

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

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, 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 - $175,000 USD