Senior IT Network Engineer II

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 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 our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Rocket Lab’s IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem‑solvers working in a fast‑paced environment but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.

Located onsite at Rocket Lab's Long Beach, CA facility, the Senior IT Network Engineer will be responsible for the design, implementation, and operation of all networks and firewalls relating to Corporate IT, Launch, Space Systems and their related Operations. These systems include support of the infrastructure required at related sites across the USA so some travel may be required. Related systems include flat sat networks, loggers/telemetry servers, on orbit operations, remote operators, mission control room infra, and customer connectivity.

• Be a senior member of the team that delivers a global focus on all the network infrastructure and software that will enable Rocket Lab Engineers and Space Ops Personnel to deliver our world class Launch and Space System capabilities
• Provides subject matter expertise, advice, and guidance to deliver and support for our highly reliable and available IT network infrastructure that support the Space Systems team
• Lead upgrades, maintenance, and with a focus on continuous improvement to provide a reliable and secure network infrastructure
• Lead project scoping, planning, and deployment for network infrastructure in support of Annual Operating Plan goals
• Champion the IT Infrastructure Standards at Rocket Lab through the implementation of Standards for the deployment and management of the infrastructure environments to ensure:
  • Compliance with Rocket Lab Policies
  • Compliance with Cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures
  • Simplified and consistent environment management practices
  • Automated build and maintenance processes
  • Improvements to increase reliability of systems
  • System High Availability and Disaster Recovery
  • That the team is providing effective support
  • Clear and concise reporting on usage, uptime, support levels, etc.
  • Comprehensive documentation of environments and support
  • Efficient cost control
• Work with the other Network Engineers to establish WAN and LAN networking Standards
• Work with a team of world class IT, engineering, and business professionals

• 8+ years of experience in IT and a bachelor's degree OR equivalent years of work experience (12+ years total experience)
• 5+ of those years of experience in a network focused technology role
• In-depth knowledge of Fortinet, Juniper or Cisco network switching and firewall setup, configuration, and management
• Expert knowledge of WAN, SD‑WAN, routing, IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.

• Specialist qualification in area of expertise: CISM, AWS, Azure, Microsoft, etc.
• AWS and/or O365 & Azure enterprise environments
• Advanced problem solving and analytical skills – able to see the big picture, make connections and appropriate decisions
• One or more…