Space Systems Deputy Chief 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

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in Rocket Lab’s evolution into an end-to-end space company that delivers launch, spacecraft, and on-orbit operations. The Space Systems Division is shaping Rocket Lab’s future with Photon, our brand of high-performance satellites, enabling innovative missions in low Earth orbit and beyond including missions for NASA to LEO, the Moon, and Mars and commercial customers, including leading the design and manufacture of 17 high-power telecommunication spacecraft buses for Globalstar.

Rocket Lab is also growing our spacecraft components business, anchored on the acquisition of Sinclair Interplanetary manufacturing reaction wheels and star trackers in Toronto, SolAero Technologies manufacturing solar power and primary structure solutions in Albuquerque, Planetary Systems Corporation manufacturing launch separation systems in Silver Spring, and Advanced Solutions, Inc., provider of flight and ground software as a service in Denver. Our components business is key to vertically integrating our spacecraft solutions and enabling constellations for customers.  

SPACE SYSTEMS DEPUTY CHIEF ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, the Space Systems Deputy Chief Engineer plays a pivotal role in the technology and platform development for high performance satellite missions in defense and intelligence space. In addition, you will participate in the development of technologies and platforms that will see the Space Systems division deliver missions to the Moon, Venus, and Mars.

Your days will be spent leading the technical design, development, testing, and production of Rocket Lab’s space systems for a range of LEO and deep space missions. You will be instrumental in using the wealth of on-orbit data from our many successful missions to ensure the reliability, robustness, and performance of our satellite programs. The ideal candidate will be familiar with both mission systems engineering and satellite software and hardware, as well as have a proven record of leading engineering teams in fast-paced environments.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Work directly with the Space Systems Chief Engineer in technical decision-making processes and guide technical development across all Space Systems disciplines
• Co-chair along with the Space Systems Chief Engineer in technical reviews, engineering change, and configuration management process adherence
• Guide systems engineering processes and facilitate technical trades across the system
• Identify technical issues and proactively implement resolutions to mitigate schedule and cost impacts
• Lead mission definition, including mission design, operational concepts, and orbit selection
• Guide development of systems engineering products, spacecraft architecture, trade studies, requirements development, verification, and validation plans
• Identify vendors and oversee spacecraft component selection
• Provide technical mentorship to team members and monitor technical integrity of all team members’ contributions
• Contribute to the vision and strategy for growing the Space Systems division in collaboration with executive and business development teams
• Contribute to proposal development
• Develop, monitor, and adhere to efficient program budgets, schedules, and resource plans

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS (Note: you must meet every qualification in order to be considered):

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, math, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in satellite design, development, test, and operations across multiple flight projects/programs
• Active TS/SCI security clearance or, ability to obtain and maintain one
• Experience taking a product from concept phase through proto