Mission Manager - Space Systems

Rocket Lab Corporation • Long Beach, CA

21h • Onsite

About The Position

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.
MISSION MANAGER
Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, Mission Managers work directly with customers from signing of contract through payload integration to launch. This role is focused on supporting Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team with communication and coordination between Rocket Lab and external customers and launch service providers (LSP). The ideal candidate has previous hands-on experience with small spacecraft and is comfortable working with both commercial and government customers as well as frequent domestic and international travel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline.
• 5+ years of mission/program management experience and/or an engineering background (stress, fatigue, payloads, vibration, thermal or similar).
• Hardware integration or project management experience on either launch vehicles or spacecraft projects.
• Ability to travel to launch sites, customer sites, and overseas (e.g. Rocket Labs New Zealand facility or launch sites worldwide).

Nice To Haves

• Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred
• Experience with SmallSats, or other small space payloads, especially launch integration campaigns.
• ITAR - Previous experience with ITAR & establishment of TAA's.
• Previous Mission Management or Mission Integration experience.
• Experience working with complex mechanical systems with your own hands.
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to perform electrical and mechanical testing.
• Active DoD Secret clearance preferred, but not required.
• Solid interpersonal and organizational skills
• Ability to understand technical constraints relative to payload launch including results from mission specific analysis.
• Solid presentation and technical writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Management of multiple Rocket Lab space systems missions, including technical, programmatic, and financial milestones.
• Oversees hands-on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser and launch vehicle integration.
• Responsible for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD) and verification artifacts
• In constant contact with customers and launch service providers to answer questions with technical staff as required.
• Shape spacecraft design and testing requirements for launch vehicle compatibility including mechanical, electrical, and thermal
• Plan launch site activities, develop and submit safety compliance documentation to range or LSP teams, travel to launch sites and execute campaign

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level