Software Technical Project Manager - Secret Clearance

Software Technical Project Manager - Secret Clearance

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Software Technical Project Manager, based out of our HQ in Long Beach, CA. This role will work with a team of engineers on Rocket Lab’s flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space-to-Space Communications, Space-to-Ground Communications, Payload Software, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior experience managing software development efforts for embedded systems and government programs.

Knowledge of secure network systems is a must‑have, with RF and spacecraft experience being an additional benefit. This role will report to the Senior Manager, Business Operations.

• Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
• Manage suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system.
• Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain roadmaps, product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones.
• Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking.
• Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams.
• Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership.
• Plan major integration points and testing between teams.
• Lead software teams agile ceremonies including Increment Planning, Stakeholder reviews, and retrospectives/backlog refinement.
• Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
• Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree & 8+ years industry experience in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors.
• Thorough understanding of network software.
• Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile methodologies including Scaled Agile (SAFe), etc.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active Secret clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.

• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline.
• An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
• Experience with SDA NEBULA architectures.
• Experience with Cyber Security controls.
• Experience with encryption.
• Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies.
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc.
• Experience with Docker.
• Experience with Kubernetes.
• Experience with Dev Sec Ops .
• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships.

• 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.

$150,000 – $190,000 USD

Employees may receive company equity and a robust benefits package including top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option,…