Head of Ground Software

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.

HEAD OF GROUND SOFTWARE 

Rocket Lab is seeking a Head of Ground Software to lead the development and execution of our ground software infrastructure, supporting mission-critical space-to-ground communications, ground data infrastructure, mission operations, and spacecraft production. This role is based at our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, and is pivotal in shaping the software product and ecosystem that supports Rocket Lab’s space systems and missions. 

As a senior technical leader, you will drive strategic direction, architecture, product, and execution of ground software systems and operations while managing a high-performing team of engineers in CA and CO. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, program management, related disciplines, and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of ground systems with flight operations. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Define and execute the strategic roadmap for ground software systems, ensuring scalability, security, performance, and mission reliability.
• Own the architecture and development of end-to-end ground software solutions, including mission control, telemetry processing, data security, spacecraft production software, and RF/network infrastructure.
• Establish and maintain technical budgets, system requirements, and verification techniques to optimize vehicle-ground integration.
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams to develop advanced simulations, analysis tools, and testing methodologies.
• Partner with program and product management to align software capabilities with mission objectives and company goals.
• Drive innovation in ground software, ensuring adoption of modern technologies, automation, and secure data handling practices.
• Develop key documentation, including interface specifications, CONOPS, licensing, and design frameworks. 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including ground systems and mission operations.
• 8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs.
• Expertise in secure ground data systems, with knowledge of RF and network infrastructure.
• Expertise in microservice software development.
• Expertise in time-series and relational databases.
• Expertise in Python and other software languages
• Expertise in Angular and other front-end frameworks
• Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations. 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: