Mission Manager/ Senior Mission Manager - HASTE - DoD Secret Clearance

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!

MISSION MANAGER

Based out of one of Rocket Lab sites in N. America, Mission Managers work directly with customers from signing of contract through payload integration to launch at either our Auckland, New Zealand or Wallops, Virginia launch site for Rocket Lab’s HASTE program. The ideal candidate is comfortable working with both commercial and government customers as well as frequent domestic and international travel. Prior mission management or mission integration experience required, preferably in support of suborbital and/or hypersonic payloads.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Management of multiple Rocket Lab customer missions, including technical, programmatic, and financial milestones.
• Oversees hands-on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser and launch vehicle integration.
• Lead technical milestone reviews with customers such as mission design or test readiness reviews
• Assists business development with proposal input, lead generation, and technical sales engineering reviews.
• Responsible for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Payload Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD).
• In constant contact with customers to answer questions with technical staff as required.
• Represent the company at public events, including conferences, industry forums, outreach and recruiting events.
• Helps lead Mission Integrators in expanding their mission management skillset

***This requisition can be hired at a Mission Manager or Senior Mission Manager level***

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A MISSION MANAGER:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline – Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred.
• 5+ years of mission management experience/Technical program management experience
• Active DoD Secret Clearance
• Hardware integration or project management experience on either launch vehicles or spacecraft projects.
• Ability to travel to launch pads, customer sites, and overseas (e.g. Rocket Labs New Zealand facility/launch site).

 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR MISSION MANAGER:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline – Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred.
• 8+ years of mission management experience/Technical program management experience
• Active DoD Secret Clearance
• Hardware integration or project management experience on either launch vehicles or spacecraft projects.
• Ability to travel to launch pads, customer sites, and overseas (e.g. Rocket Labs New Zealand facility/launch site).

 

 THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with Suborbital and/or hypersonic payloads
• ITAR - Previous experience with ITAR & establishment of TAA's.
• Previous Mission Management or Mission Integration experience.
• Experience working with complex mechanical systems with your own hands.
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Solid interpersonal and organizational skills, able to assist with closure of sales / customer capture.
• Ability to understand technical constraints relative to payload launch including results from mission specific analysis.
• Solid presentation and technical writing skills.

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.