Principal Program Manager - TS/SCI

Rocket Lab USA • Long Beach, CA

102d • $125,000 - $270,000

About The Position

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more. Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights! Rocket Lab's Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, math, or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of program management experience in the aerospace industry
• Direct technical experience as an engineer supporting satellite and/or space programs
• Active TS/SCI clearance

Nice To Haves

• 10+ years of demonstrated space system program management experience across multiple spacecraft flight projects/programs
• Experience with managing employees
• Thorough understanding of space systems and subsystems, and depth across multiple spacecraft engineering disciplines
• Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
• Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systematic approach
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Teamcenter, etc.
• Experience managing both low and high-cost space programs, as well as deep space and LEO missions
• Experience working with government customers, government requirements, and government project management practices

Responsibilities

• Serve as the program manager for the design, development, test, and production phases of Rocket Lab's space systems for low Earth orbit and/or deep space missions
• Deliver Rocket Lab's space systems to the launch pad on time and within budget
• Work in collaboration with Space Systems Chief Engineer to plan and execute programs
• Identify implementation issues and proactively develop recovery plans before schedule and cost impacts are realized
• Approve selection and make/buy decisions of spacecraft components and manage subcontracts
• Report program status, issues, and problems to Rocket Lab senior leadership
• Lead or approve input into proposal development and business development activities
• Serve as a team leader and take accountability for the cost and schedule performance of the team
• Manage relationship with a broad set of cross-functional engineering and production teams to deliver on program goals
• Develop and maintain professional working relationships with all program stakeholders across the company
• Travel domestically and internationally regularly to support programs

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
• Childcare concierge
• Other discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees