SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER I/II

As a Senior Ground Software Engineer I/II based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you will serve as a technical authority for spacecraft ground software across our Space Systems missions. You will help define and evolve the end-to-end architecture of ground systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and mission success for both internal teams and external customers. This role is highly visible, with deliverables that support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Own major parts of architecture and evolve Rocket Lab's web-based ground software platforms for spacecraft operations.
• Partner with flight software developers, mission operations personnel, and systems engineers to translate mission needs into scalable ground system designs.
• Deploy, configure, and optimize the Rocket Lab Ground Data System for diverse mission profiles.
• Establish robust monitoring, alerting, and reliability frameworks to proactively detect and mitigate issues.
• Provide technical direction and architectural guidance to ensure mission resilience, system integration, and long-term maintainability.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on ground software strategy, risk areas, and emerging technologies.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Ground Software Engineer I or Senior Ground Software Engineer II level)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development
• Proven track record architecting web-based software systems at scale
• Strong systems-level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade-offs across performance, security, and maintainability
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development
• Proven track record architecting web-based software systems at scale
• Strong systems-level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade-offs across performance, security, and maintainability
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Active TS clearance
• Full-stack development experience, including:
  • Backend - Python, Golang, and/or Rust
  • Frontend - Typescript and Angular
  • Database - InfluxDB, PostgreSQL, or equivalent
• Experience with end-to-end testing frameworks like Playwright
• Aerospace background supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, or launch vehicle ground/mission operations
• Experience designing with Python web frameworks (FastAPI or equivalent)
• Deep knowledge of microservice architectures and distributed systems
• Demonstrated leadership in end-to-end system design and delivery with engineering teams
• Ability to produce clear, well-structured, and well-documented software designs
• Familiarity with database architecture, schema design, and optimization
• Expertise in Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestration
• Understanding of modern authentication/authorization frameworks (OAuth, etc.)
• Knowledge of CCSDS standards, including Space Packet Protocol, COP-1, and CFD

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
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$135,000-$190,000 USD