Software Quality Engineer II

Overview

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more to open access space. The Space Systems team builds complete spacecraft, precision payloads, and components such as solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our team has enabled more than 1,700 missions and collaborates with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force to support missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

As a Software Quality Engineer II based at Rocket Lab’s site in Littleton, CO, you will ensure the highest standards of quality across complex, mission-critical software programs. You will provide quality oversight throughout the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC), from requirements definition through deployment and sustainment. You will collaborate with engineering teams to ensure compliance with quality management systems and program requirements, applying Agile processes.

This role drives quality improvements, establishes and analyzes metrics, conducts root cause analyses, and ensures processes support the delivery of high-performance, secure, and reliable software solutions that meet mission objectives.

• Define comprehensive test plans, including functional, integration, system, and user acceptance tests.
• Produce automated tests that can be run in the CI/CD pipeline.
• Manual test the hard-to-catch issues that are not caught by automated pipelines.
• Work with the development team during code reviews and through an integrated CI/CD pipeline to ensure continuous improvement and immediate feedback.
• Produce software releases ensuring that they meet quality standards and pass all required tests.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 2+ years of work experience in professional software development including software verification and validation practices
• Understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle and V-Model
• Proven track record producing or testing high quality software in a CI/CD pipeline
• Proficiency in Python
• Proficiency in CI/CD pipeline automation tools
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

• Proficiency in C and C++ languages
• Aerospace background supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, or launch vehicle ground/mission operations
• Demonstrated leadership in testing design and working with engineering teams
• Ability to produce clear, well-structured, and well-documented designs
• Experience with Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestration

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Base salary is one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can 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.

Base Pay Range (CO Only)

$100,000 — $135,000 USD

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, requiring hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on supporting colleagues and delivering under pressure with a focus on action and results.

For US offices:
To conform to ITAR regulations, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Equal employment opportunities are provided to all employees and applicants without discrimination or harassment. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation may contact the designated resource for accessibility assistance. For New Zealand offices: background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers, including nationality checks as required by ITAR regulations.

More information about ITAR regulations can be requested.