Director, Ground Software

Rocket Lab Corporation•Long Beach, CA

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is seeking a Director of Ground Software to lead the development and execution of our ground software infrastructure, supporting mission-critical space-to-ground communications, ground data infrastructure, mission operations, and spacecraft production. This role is based at our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, and is pivotal in shaping the software product and ecosystem that supports Rocket Lab’s space systems and missions. As a senior technical leader, you will drive strategic direction, architecture, product, and execution of ground software systems and operations while managing a high-performing team of engineers in CA and CO. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, program management, related disciplines, and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of ground systems with flight operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including ground systems and mission operations.
8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs.
Expertise in secure ground data systems, with knowledge of RF and network infrastructure.
Expertise in microservice software development.
Expertise in time-series and relational databases.
Expertise in Python and other software languages
Expertise in Angular and other front-end frameworks
Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations.

Nice To Haves

PhD or advanced degree in a related technical field.
Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including ADCS, EPS, space-ground communications, and C&DH.
Strong background in orbital mechanics, orbit determination, space environment modeling, COLA, and rigid body dynamics.
Proficiency in STK, GMAT, or similar space mission analysis tools.
Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS).
Experience with MBSE and process automation.
Experience with UI and UX development.
Experience with AI/ML.
Experience with operations procedure development, management, and execution.
Hands-on experience with satellite operations, subsystem testing, and HITL validation.
Ability to navigate a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with competing priorities.

Responsibilities

Define and execute the strategic roadmap for ground software systems, ensuring scalability, security, performance, and mission reliability.
Own the architecture and development of end-to-end ground software solutions, including mission control, telemetry processing, data security, spacecraft production software, and RF/network infrastructure.
Establish and maintain technical budgets, system requirements, and verification techniques to optimize vehicle-ground integration.
Lead multi-disciplinary teams to develop advanced simulations, analysis tools, and testing methodologies.
Partner with program and product management to align software capabilities with mission objectives and company goals.
Drive innovation in ground software, ensuring adoption of modern technologies, automation, and secure data handling practices.
Develop key documentation, including interface specifications, CONOPS, licensing, and design frameworks.

Benefits

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
access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match
Discounted employee stock purchase program
subsidized EV charging stations
onsite gym
food and drinks, and other discounts