Senior Software Engineer I - Data Engineering

Senior Software Engineer I - Data EngineeringLong Beach, CARocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.Senior Software Engineer I - Data EngineeringAt Rocket Lab, operational data drives everything from production acceptance to mission success. The Data Engineering team builds the foundational infrastructure, platforms, and tools that make this possible, providing long-term storage, data management, discovery, and access for data across all verticals. Our platforms enable data processing and automation at scale, while our applications and services provide the visualization and reporting capabilities that engineers rely on throughout the product lifecycle.We're seeking a Senior Software Engineer to help us build and scale the data infrastructure that powers Rocket Lab's operations.Based onsite at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you'll design, build, and maintain core data platforms and services that enable engineers across the company to access and work with operational data.

You'll collaborate with teams across development, testing, production, and mission operations to build robust, scalable solutions—from data pipelines and storage systems to APIs and processing platforms. Your work will directly impact our ability to validate hardware, execute missions, and improve performance across all Rocket Lab verticals.What You'll Get To Do:Design, build, and deploy tools and services that power operational data access across Rocket LabCollaborate with engineering teams across multiple verticals and time zones to understand data requirements and deliver scalable infrastructure solutionsDevelop and maintain apps, services, and platforms that can scale with the business' needs.Build automation and tools that enable engineers to discover, access, and work with operational data efficientlyOwn services end-to-end—from architecture and development through deployment and production supportYou'll Bring These Qualifications:A degree or diploma in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experienceAt least 5 years of professional experience in software engineering or a related disciplineExpertise in Python development and a deep understanding of backend architectureExperience deploying services at scale, and familiarity with CI/CD and containerizationStrong Git skills for version control and collaborationExperience with Kubernetes or similar orchestration tools for managing containerized applicationsHands-on experience designing and developing REST APIsFamiliarity with issue tracking tools like Jira or RedmineU.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirementsThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:Proficiency with common data analysis libraries/tools (e.g., Pandas, Numpy), and building ETL pipelinesExperience in data visualization, data science and numerical analysis techniquesFamiliarity with agile development practicesDatabase knowledge (SQL)Experience with web and user interface developmentThis position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. 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. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.$132,000 - $160,000 USDWhat To Expect:We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace.

We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.