Senior Project Manager II

Senior Project Manager II

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 Project Manager II

Based on site at Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach CA, the Senior Project Manager is part of a team responsible for driving multiple Enterprise-wide initiatives from planning to closing. Responsible to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to scope by leading project teams, managing resources, developing detailed plans, engaging stakeholders, identifying and mitigating risks, and guaranteeing high-quality deliverables that meet the required quality standards. The Senior Project Manager coordinates internal resources and third parties/vendors to deliver projects according to plan.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Develop comprehensive project plans including a charter, communication plan, timelines, milestones, resource allocation, and risk assessments
• Deliver assigned projects on time, within scope, and within budget
• Lead cross-functional teams to execute project plans and achieve project objectives
• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement corrective actions
• Coordinate internal RL resources and manage third parties/vendors
• Manage project scope and objectives, involving all relevant stakeholders
• Establish clear communication channels with senior leadership, key stakeholders, executives, and team members
• Use appropriate verification techniques to manage changes in project scope, schedule, and costs
• Measure project performance using appropriate systems, tools, and techniques (Smartsheet, Microsoft Project/Planner, Confluence, JIRA, etc.)
• Report and escalate to management as needed
• Manage the relationship with the client and all stakeholders
• Perform risk management to minimize project risks (RAID)

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• 8+ years of proven project management experience and a Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience (12+ years of work experience)
• 8+ years of strong leadership and organizational change management skills

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address project challenges
• Fosters a collaborative team environment and resolves conflicts constructively
• PMP certification is a plus
• Worked in Aerospace and Defense or comparable hi-tech manufacturing sectors
• Enterprise project/program management is a plus
• Expertise in multiple project management methodologies (i.e., Waterfall, Agile, etc.)

Ada 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.