Manager – Neutron Software - Zealand

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

This position is located in Auckland, New Zealand and relocation will be provided.

As the Neutron Software Manager, you’ll lead the charge in developing and deploying the software that brings Neutron to life, from Flight 1 through numerous upgrades to software resilience and reliability. You’ll collaborate closely with GNC, Hardware‑In‑The‑Loop, and ground software teams, ensuring seamless integration and performance across all systems. Your leadership will inspire a high‑performance culture built on ownership, empowerment, and accountability.

You’ll guide your team through challenging milestones, balancing priorities, resources, and risks, while fostering innovation and career growth.

• Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent expertise
• 5+ years of Software Engineering experience
• 2+ years of direct people leadership experience, including mentorship and career development
• 2+ years of project leadership experience in schedule‑sensitive programs
• Experience with software deployment and CI tooling, data processing, and data engineering
• Proficiency in Git and issue trackers, with experience in system languages like C++

• Experience with highly reliable software systems and requirements‑driven design
• A solid understanding of GNC principles
• Familiarity with Machine Learning and/or Bazel

This isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to shape the future of how Rocket Lab does launch vehicle software. You’ll be the driving force behind the software systems that balance the old with the new, and above all, your leadership will directly influence the success of Neutron.

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, and that requires 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 keep our focus on how we can deliver rather than dwelling on challenges that stand in the way.

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 (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Learn more about ITAR here.

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…