Software Quality Engineer II

Overview

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – with the goal of opening access space. The Space Systems team builds spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions and empowers bold space missions across interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing, national security and defense initiatives.

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 closely with engineering teams to ensure compliance with quality management systems and program requirements, while applying Agile processes.

This role is essential in driving quality improvements, establishing and analyzing metrics, root cause analysis, and ensuring processes support the successful delivery of high-performance, secure, and reliable software solutions that meet mission objectives.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• 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.

YOU'LL BRING THESE

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 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
• Expertise in Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestration

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 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

COMPENSATION

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Base pay range CO: $100,000 - $135,000 USD. Final compensation is based on qualifications and experience. Base pay is one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package; you may be eligible for stock, cash incentives, and other benefits. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, parental leave, and other perks.

WHAT TO EXPECT

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 commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace, supporting each other and delivering under pressure.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law. Any offer of employment is contingent on successful background checks and references, where applicable.

The company complies with ITAR and other regulatory requirements, and certain roles may require citizenship status in accordance with applicable laws.