Principal Network Software Engineer - TS/SCI

PRINCIPAL NETWORK SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Principal Network Software Engineer to be based out of our office in Littleton, CO. This role will work with a team of engineers on Rocket Lab’s flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space-to-Space Communications, Space-to-Ground Communications, Payload Software, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior experience managing software development efforts for embedded systems and government programs. Knowledge of secure network systems is a must-have, with RF and spacecraft experience being an additional benefit. This role will report to the Senior Director of Space Systems Software.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
• Manage suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system.
• Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones.
• Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking.
• Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams.
• Set the battle rhythm 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.
• Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
• Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 12+ years of relevant work industry experience.
• 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors.
• Thorough understanding of network software.
• Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline.
• An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
• Experience with SDANEBULA architectures.
• Experience with Cyber Security controls.
• Experience with encryption.
• Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies.
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc.
• Experience with Docker.
• Experience with Kubernetes.
• Experience with DevSecOps.
• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The expected salary range for the position is $170,000 – $220,000 USD. Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock or cash incentives and may purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement plan options, paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave, paid parental leave, and other discounts and perks.

USA RESTRICTIONS

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR here.

NEW ZEALAND RESTRICTIONS

For security reasons, background checks based on nationality will be undertaken prior to any employment offers. Under the ITAR, you must be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' ITAR, which requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country. If you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality, you may be ineligible for this role. For more information, click here.

EEO STATEMENT

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.