Technical Program Manager

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.   

TECHNICAL PROGRAM MANAGER

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Technical Program Manager is responsible for supporting the development of various Space Systems programs. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Serve as the program manager for the design, development, test, and production phases of Rocket Lab’s space systems for low Earth orbit and/or deep space missions
• Deliver Rocket Lab’s space systems to the launch pad on time and within budget
• Work in collaboration with Space Systems Chief Engineer to plan and execute programs
• Identify implementation issues and proactively develop recovery plans before schedule and cost impacts are realized
• Approve selection and make/buy decisions of spacecraft components and manage subcontracts
• Report program status, issues, and problems to Rocket Lab senior leadership
• Lead or approve input into proposal development and business development activities
• Serve as a team leader and take accountability for the cost and schedule performance of the team
• Manage relationship with a broad set of cross-functional engineering and production teams to deliver on program goals
• Develop and maintain professional working relationships with all program stakeholders across the company
• Travel domestically and internationally regularly to support programs

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, math, or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of program management experience in the aerospace industry
• Direct technical experience as an engineer supporting satellite and/or space programs

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 10+ years of demonstrated space system program management experience across multiple spacecraft flight projects/programs
• Experience with managing employees
• Thorough understanding of space systems and subsystems, and depth across multiple spacecraft engineering disciplines
• Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
• Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systematic approach
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Teamcenter, etc.
• Experience managing both low and high-cost space programs, as well as deep space and LEO missions
• Experience working with government customers, government requirements, and government project management practices

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 ve