Personnel Security (PERSEC) Lead

Rocket Lab Corporation • Long Beach, CA

7d

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. PERSONAL SECURITY (PERSEC) LEAD The Personnel Security (PERSEC) Lead is responsible for the strategic oversight and day-to-day execution of Rocket Lab’s personnel security program in support of the company’s overall national security mission. This role ensures full compliance with the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and applicable government regulations while enabling the business to move quickly and win classified work. The PERSEC Lead partners closely with Industrial Security, Physical Security, IT Security, HR, Legal, and Program Management to ensure cleared personnel are processed efficiently, compliantly, and with a high degree of integrity. The PERSEC Lead acts as a technical leader and trusted advisor within the Global Security organization. This individual demonstrates ownership of business outcomes, proactively identifies risk before it becomes impact, and drives continuous improvement of personnel security processes. They balance strict regulatory compliance with Rocket Lab’s need for speed and innovation, ensuring Security enables mission success rather than impedes it.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in security management, business, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in Industrial Security with significant focus on Personnel Security (PERSEC).
• Deep working knowledge of 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) requirements, DISS, NBIS, TALON, and related DoD/IC systems.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with a current SSBI and must maintain an active Top Secret SCI clearance with polygraph as required by program sponsor(s).
• Domestic travel may be required (25%).

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting SCI and/or SAP programs and Intelligence Community customers.
• Strong background in audit preparation and successful DCSA assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive issues with discretion, sound judgment, and professionalism.
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills coupled with strong business acumen

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the enterprise-wide Personnel Security program, ensuring compliance with 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) and all applicable DoD and Intelligence Community requirements.
• Oversee end-to-end clearance processing, including initial investigations, periodic reinvestigations, Continuous Vetting updates, upgrades, SCI nominations, polygraph coordination, as well as briefings and debriefings.
• Serve as the primary interface with DCSA, DoD, and IC PERSEC representatives for all clearance-related matters.
• Ensure accurate and timely submissions and management within DISS, NBIS, and other government systems of record.
• Develop and maintain internal controls, SOPs, and metrics to ensure audit readiness and continuous compliance under the company’s FCL, 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) and all applicable DoD and Intelligence Community requirements.
• Lead adverse information reporting, incident management, and coordination with Insider Threat, Legal, and HR to ensure proper handling and mitigation.
• Partner with Leadership and Talent Acquisition to forecast clearance demand, reduce processing cycle times, and align personnel security actions with business growth objectives.
• Provide subject matter expertise to senior leadership regarding clearance strategy, eligibility risk, and program impact to contracts and revenue.
• Train managers and employees on clearance responsibilities, reporting obligations, and security best practices.

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
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees