Senior Network Software Engineer II -Secret Clearance

ABOUT ROCKET LABRocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

SPACE SYSTEMSAt Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built 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. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR NETWORK SOFTWARE ENGINEER II - SECRET CLEARANCERocket Lab is looking for a driven Senior Network Software Engineer II to be based out of our global headquarters 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 Head of Flight Software. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

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 YOU'LL BRING THESE

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline8+ years of relevant work 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, with eligibility to obtain TS/SCIU.S citizenship required due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or…