Software Technical Project Manager - Secret Clearance

Rocket Lab•Long Beach, CA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is seeking a Software Technical Project Manager for its Space Systems team, based at the company’s headquarters in Long Beach, California. The role works with engineers on programs involving space-to-space and space-to-ground communications, payload software, and data security. The successful candidate will manage software development and integration for routers, radios, and laser communication devices across a spacecraft constellation, while coordinating internal teams, suppliers, and subcontractors to meet program milestones. The role reports to the Senior Manager, Business Operations. The position includes developing simulation and test approaches for constellation networking, planning integration and testing between teams, and leading software teams’ agile ceremonies. The manager will establish contractor KPIs and delivery rhythms, maintain staffing and product development plans, and drive software development standards, feedback, and continuous improvement. Experience managing embedded software development and government programs is important; knowledge of secure network systems is required, while RF and spacecraft experience are beneficial.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 8 or more years of industry experience in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering, or a similar technical discipline.
At least 3 years of experience in project management and interfacing with external contractors.
Thorough understanding of network software.
Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile methodologies, including Scaled Agile (SAFe).
Experience using Jira for software development management.
Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
Active Secret clearance.
U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.

Nice To Haves

Active TS/SCI clearance.
Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or another technical discipline.
Ownership outlook, with a desire to build lasting systems and willingness to identify gaps, develop plans, and engage stakeholders.
Experience with SDA NEBULA architectures.
Experience with cybersecurity controls.
Experience with encryption.
Experience leading a team using agile methodologies.
Project management qualifications such as PMP or APMP.
Ability to identify and address problems proactively and systemically.
Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project and Smartsheet.
Experience with Docker.
Experience with Kubernetes.
Experience with DevSecOps.
Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong working relationships.

Responsibilities

Manage software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
Manage suppliers and subcontractors to develop and test an integrated system.
Coordinate with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain roadmaps and product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet delivery milestones.
Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking.
Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams.
Establish the delivery cadence for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program.
Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership.
Plan major integration points and testing between teams.
Lead software teams’ agile ceremonies, including Increment Planning, stakeholder reviews, retrospectives, and backlog refinement.
Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure deliverables meet quality standards and customer requirements.

Benefits

Company stock as part of total compensation.
Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount on company stock.
Medical plans, including HMO, PPO, and a zero-cost HDHP option with a company HSA contribution.
Dental and vision coverage.
Paid vacation and sick time.
11 paid holidays.
Flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
Paid parental leave.
Disability and life insurance.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Subsidized EV charging.
Onsite fitness centers where available.
Discounted gym memberships.
Complimentary snacks and beverages.
50% employee discount on the company merchandise store.
Other employee discounts.