Senior Ground Software Engineer I - Secret

About this role

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 to 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.

SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER I - TS/SCI

As a Senior Ground Software Engineer I - Secret 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

• 2-5 years of experience in cloud engineering

• Experience in designing, deploying and managing scalable cloud solutions

• Experience architecting web-based software applications

• Active Secret Clearance

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

• CompTIA Security + (Highly recommended for foundational security knowledge)

• Experience in implementing disaster recovery plans and backup solutions in the cloud

• Ability to optimize cloud costs and manage budgets effectively

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. 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) $1

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