Director, Software Engineering (MES)

Rocket Lab Corporation•Long Beach, CA

About The Position

The Director, Software Engineering (MES) is responsible for architecting, deploying, and supporting a world-class software and infrastructure backbone that powers how Rocket Lab designs and manufactures products across all global facilities. This includes ownership of Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and agent control plane. This role leads a high-performing software engineering team, driving excellence in delivery, efficiency, and innovation. You will collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration of software systems across the manufacturing ecosystem while advancing continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
10+ years of experience in manufacturing software engineering
8+ years of leadership experience managing teams and complex software programs
Proven ability to solve large-scale, complex problems with minimal oversight
Experience operating in fast-paced, high-stakes environments with competing priorities
Deep expertise in factory/embedded manufacturing software systems
Programming & Infrastructure: Rust, Go, C/C++, Kubernetes (K8s, EKS, K3s), Docker
Distributed Systems & Messaging: Kafka, NATS, Linkerd, Traefik
Databases: Redis, PostgreSQL, MSSQL, MySQL, Scylla, Cassandra, CockroachDB, FoundationDB, SQLite
Tooling & Frontend: ArgoCD, Tauri, TypeScript, React
Networking & Protocols: TCP/IP, gRPC, Protobuf, FlatBuffers
Industrial protocols: EtherCAT, Profinet, CANBUS
APIs & Security: RESTful services, mTLS, TLS
Demonstrated success delivering mission-critical software for factory automation
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Willingness and ability to travel internationally

Nice To Haves

Inventor or author of patents related to factory or manufacturing software systems

Responsibilities

Own the architecture and development of MES software solutions across Rocket Lab
Define, build, and maintain a Software Center of Excellence
Establish and execute a strategic MES roadmap focused on scalability, security, operational efficiency, and mission reliability
Identify and implement best practices and emerging technologies to drive operational excellence
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to develop and evolve company strategy
Track performance against financial targets, milestones, and external benchmarks
Provide strategic insights through regular operational and performance reviews
Guide business teams to ensure disciplined planning and execution of key initiatives
Foster alignment and collaboration across functions, disciplines, and global operations
Oversee the design, planning, and optimization of manufacturing software systems
Ensure scalability, reliability, and efficiency of MES operations
Lead deployment and support of MES platforms across all Rocket Lab sites
Direct large-scale engineering programs from concept through completion
Ensure delivery on time and within budget
Partner with the Project Management Office to prioritize and execute initiatives
Develop and manage annual budgets aligned with strategic objectives
Define and report key financial and operational metrics
Optimize global resource allocation for efficient delivery of applications and services
Manage manufacturing engineering budgets, including cost optimization and process improvements
Ensure adherence to health and safety policies and procedures
Promote proper PPE usage and safe work practices
Ensure timely reporting of incidents and near misses
Implement preventative safety measures across operations
Partner with R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, Product Engineering, and Production teams
Enable seamless integration of new products and processes into manufacturing systems
Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including executive leadership
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing software engineering team
Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement
Domestic and international travel as required
Other duties as assigned

Benefits

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.

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