Principal Program Manager - TS/SCI

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.   

PRINCIPAL PROGRAM MANAGER - TS/SCI CLEARANCE

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Principal Program Manager is responsible for delivering mission outcomes for 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
• Partner 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 mission leader and take accountability for the cost and schedule performance of the program
• 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
• 12+ years of program management experience in the aerospace industry
• Direct technical experience as an engineer supporting satellite and/or space programs
• U.S citizenship is required due to program requirements
• Active TS/SCI clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 15+ 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