Principal Enterprise Integration Software Engineer

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!

SPACE SYSTEMS 

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

PRINCIPAL ENTERPRISE INTEGRATION SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Rocket Lab is looking for a Principal Enterprise Integration Software Engineer based out of our office in Littleton, CO. This role will support a team of engineers and subcontractors on Rocket Lab’s flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space to Ground Communications, Ground Data Infrastructure, Mission Operations, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior knowledge of secure ground data systems is a must have, with RF and network experience being an additional benefit. This role will report to the Space Systems Software Director, with strong collaboration with the Program Management Office.  

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Develop and maintain:
• Technical budgets for vehicle performance
• System requirements and verification techniques
• Simulations and analysis across vehicle functions
• Test methods and data analysis
• Lead and own technical development of spacecraft missions
• Assist with program and product management
• Develop, in collaboration with team members, interface specifications, CONOPS definition, and other design documents

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• 12+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry
• Experience supporting satellite and/or spacecraft development programs

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including: attitude determination and control (ADCS), electrical power systems (EPS), space-ground communications, on-orbit command and data handling (C&DH), and thermal control
• Thorough understanding of the space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, and STK
• Experience with requirement management tools such as JAMA or DOORS
• Experience with satellite operations
• Experience with testing electrical subsystems and assemblies, thermal vacuum or random vibration, and hardware-in-the loop (HITL) testing
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment with competing priorities

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 d