Senior Program Manager

SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER I

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Senior Program Manager leads the execution of satellite component projects, interfaces with customers, defines internal programmatic processes, and guides decision‑making strategy for the manufacturing of separation systems, on‑orbit mechanisms, and other electro‑mechanical deployables.

• Define program requirements (external & internal) based on customer proposals.
• Analyze cost and schedule data to improve processes and outcomes.
• Identify, track, and mitigate technical and programmatic risks.
• Maintain relationships with customers and build long‑term partnerships.
• Facilitate cross‑functional planning and project execution, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and aligned with business strategy.
• Communicate objectives, status, risks, and needs to all levels of the organization.
• Identify opportunities for improving overall program performance.
• Contribute to business unit and divisional strategy planning.
• Develop reporting and tracking programs to assure the project remains on target for schedule and cost.
• Prepare contingency plans with key risk owners.
• Contribute to new product marketing and manufacturing plans while ensuring effective programmatic controls.

• 5+ years of program management experience in a production or product‑development environment within aerospace or a similar industry.
• Experience managing project or program management activities for NPI.
• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in a relevant engineering field or in business.
• Demonstrated competence in problem‑solving, data analysis, and project planning.
• Experience complying with federally mandated requirements under U.S. export‑control laws.

• Passionate interest in the satellite industry.
• Masters in Business, Operations, or a related engineering field.
• Drive to learn new concepts and take on new challenges.
• Outstanding attention to detail and high‑quality outputs.
• Strong communication skills for all organizational levels.
• Familiarity with satellite manufacturing, test, and metal fabrication processes.
• Management or strategy consulting experience.
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Systems Engineering, or Industrial Engineering with a focus on manufacturing, operations, or logistics.
• Experience interpreting and negotiating contract terms and conditions.
• Knowledge of ITAR processes and regulations.

• Strong vision abilities (close, distance, peripheral, depth perception). Must be able 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 our buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $107,000 – $135,000 USD

Eligibility & Compliance:
Candidates must be U.S. citizens or lawful U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) to comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Rocket Lab requires necessary authorizations from U.S. government agencies for all program managers.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants 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 expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.