Senior Network Software Engineer I​/II

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. Our rockets and satellites enable scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change missions, national security, and new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, delivering more than 230 satellites to orbit while we develop Neutron, a medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle. The Space Systems business designs and builds satellites, payloads, and associated components, including spacecraft for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components for the James Webb Space Telescope.

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Senior Network Software Engineer I/II to be based out of our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This role will work with a team of engineers on flagship efforts 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 for embedded systems and government programs.

Knowledge of secure network systems is mandatory; RF and spacecraft experience is an additional benefit. The role reports to the Head of Flight Software.

NOTE:

This position can be hired at the Senior Network Software Engineer I or Senior Network Software Engineer II level.

• 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 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.
• 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 in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering, or a similar technical discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of network software.
• Knowledge of the software development lifecycle.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active Secret security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering, or a similar technical discipline.
• 8+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of network software.
• Knowledge of the software development lifecycle.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active Secret security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

• Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related discipline.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• Ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders.
• Experience with SDANEBULA architectures.
• Experience with Cyber Security controls.
• Experience with encryption.
• Experience leading a…