Facilities Manager

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 to 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, 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 Facilities team is responsible for maintenance, operations, and improvements projects across our locations, making sure that the facilities our teams use every day are well looked after and operating as they should.

Based at Rocket Lab Optical Systems’ headquarters in Tucson, AZ, the Facilities Manager is responsible for facilities maintenance, operations, and improvement projects for our Tucson and Chantilly facilities. This role encompasses maintenance and capital‑expense planning of equipment, and supports the General Manager with deliverables including developing and managing business operational budgets and reducing expenditures.

• Manage Rocket Lab Optical Systems facility operations, including janitorial, maintenance, repair, and update/upgrade activities. Support to other Rocket Lab North America facilities may be requested.
• Support major facility renovations / construction projects for timely execution.
• Develop maintenance policy and procedures ensuring optimal functioning of buildings, grounds, and associated equipment.
• Manage all building systems—including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, safety, and waste management.
• Develop and execute plans for facilities modifications and improvements, focusing on scope, schedule, and budget.
• Manage and train a staff of employees in the general maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment.
• Ensure facilities maintenance work follows safety standards, conforms to specifications, and that work orders are tracked and completed within budget.
• Work hand in hand with subordinate staff in day‑to‑day performance.
• Ensure project milestones are met and budgets adhered to.
• Manage the facilities and equipment breakdown ticketing system (JIRA) and set priorities for resolution.
• Handle hazardous waste streams in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Lead equipment engineering budgets, including maintenance, repair, and upgrade activities, and procurement and commissioning activities to ensure equipment uptime and reliability in safe conditions.
• Implement and manage the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
• Oversee maintenance of the Rocket Lab Optical Systems facility, building, and manufacturing infrastructure while enforcing site safety, security and cleanliness requirements.
• Travel as required. Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of experience – or high school diploma and 12 years of experience.
• 3+ years of supervisory/management experience.
• Facilities management and equipment maintenance experience in an aerospace, automotive, medical device, or similarly heavily regulated manufacturing environment.

• Experience managing clean rooms.
• Expert knowledge of facilities systems and improvement projects.
• Occupational health & safety skills including risk assessment, policy, training, project management, hazardous substances, and safety in manufacturing engineering.
• Knowledge and practical experience in emergency management and/or occupational health and workplace hygiene.

• Specific…