Senior Ground Software Engineer II

Rocket Lab USA

Long Beach, California

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JOB DETAILS

SALARY

$150,000–$225,000 Per Year

JOB TYPE

Full-time

SKILLS

Architectural Services, Authentication, Climate Change, Continuous Deployment/Delivery, Continuous Integration, Database Architecture, Database Design, Emerging Technology, Git, Go Programming Language (Golang), Ground System Design/Development, Internet Application, Leadership, Manufacturing, Microservices, OAuth, PostgreSQL, Product Demonstration, Product/Service Launch, Python Programming/Scripting Language, Risk, Secret Clearance, Service Delivery, Software Development, Software Engineering, Solar Power, System Architecture, System Integration (SI), Systems Engineering, Systems Scalability, Team Player, Time Management, Web Application Framework, Web Design, Web Site Monitoring, Wheel/Front-End Loader

LOCATION

Long Beach, California

POSTED

3 days ago

Senior Ground Software Engineer IILong Beach, CARocket 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, all 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.At 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 Ground Software Engineer IIAs a Senior Ground Software Engineer II based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you will serve as a technical authority for spacecraft ground software across our Space Systems missions. You will help define and evolve the end-to-end architecture of ground systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and mission success for both internal teams and external customers. This role is highly visible, with deliverables that support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors.What You'll Get To Do:Own major parts of architecture and evolve Rocket Lab's web-based ground software platforms for spacecraft operations.Partner with flight software developers, mission operations personnel, and systems engineers to translate mission needs into scalable ground system designs.Deploy, configure, and optimize the Rocket Lab Ground Data System for diverse mission profiles.Establish robust monitoring, alerting, and reliability frameworks to proactively detect and mitigate issues.Provide technical direction and architectural guidance to ensure mission resilience, system integration, and long-term maintainability.Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on ground software strategy, risk areas, and emerging technologies.Qualifications You'll Bring As Senior Ground Software Engineer II:Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline8+ years of relevant work experience in professional software developmentProven track record architecting web-based software systems at scaleStrong systems-level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade-offs across performance, security, and maintainabilityU.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirementsActive Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain oneThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:Active TS clearanceFull-stack development experience, including:Backend – Python, Golang, and/or RustFrontend – Typescript and AngularDatabase – InfluxDB, PostgreSQL, or equivalentExperience with end-to-end testing frameworks like PlaywrightAerospace background supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, or launch vehicle ground/mission operationsExperience designing with Python web frameworks (FastAPI or equivalent)Deep knowledge of microservice architectures and distributed systemsDemonstrated leadership in end-to-end system design and delivery with engineering teamsAbility to produce clear, well-structured, and well-documented software designsFamiliarity with database architecture, schema design, and optimizationExpertise in Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestrationUnderstanding of modern authentication/authorization frameworks (OAuth, etc.)Knowledge of CCSDS standards, including Space Packet Protocol, COP-1, and CFDThis position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.Base Pay Range (CA Only)$150,000 - $225,000 USDWhat To Expect:We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Senior Ground Software Engineer II

Rocket Lab USA

Long Beach, California

About the Company

Rocket Lab USA

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