Launch Site Director

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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 - 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. ROCKET LAB'S LAUNCH OPERATIONS Rocket Lab is revolutionizing space access with three innovative launch vehicles: Electron, Haste, and Neutron. Electron, our workhorse small launch vehicle, has successfully delivered over 170 satellites to orbit, proving its reliability and versatility for a wide range of missions. Haste, a dedicated suborbital testbed derived from Electron, enables rapid and cost-effective hypersonic and defense technology testing. Building on this heritage, Neutron is our next-generation medium-lift launch vehicle, designed to deliver mega constellations, high-assurance payloads, and even human spaceflight. LAUNCH SITE DIRECTOR The role of the Launch Site Director is responsible for overseeing operations at Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 2 and Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island VA. You will ultimately own all launch infrastructure and operations spanning vehicle integration, payload processing, ground systems readiness, and mission execution supporting Electron, HASTE and Neutron. Being a key role in a fast-moving organization across all of Rocket Lab's launch vehicles, this role will need to wear many hats and take a hands-on approach to overseeing various projects through from infrastructure development, launch vehicle integration, and payload processing through to site administration and logistics. If you like leading high-stakes missions with a world-class high-performing team, this role is for you. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Lead a team of technical staff (engineers and technicians) for launch vehicle integration, testing, payload processing, ground systems operations, and mission execution. Lead technical teams (engineers and technicians) in a high-pressure environment where cohesion and effective leadership are critical to mission success. Deliver a range of projects and programs, maintaining schedules, budgets to ensure successful delivery of key projects spanning multiple departments and engineering disciplines. Manage external contractors and suppliers. Continually improve launch site infrastructure and workflows with the goal of enabling high-cadence launch operations. Oversee site administration, security, supply chain, and logistics. Ensure health and safety of the team and compliance with all regulatory requirements. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or other technical discipline. 10+ years of experience in operations management, launch operations, aerospace engineering, or related fields. Demonstrated experience supporting high-paced technical projects. THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master's or PhD in an engineering discipline. Direct experience with launch vehicle operations. Background of technical expertise in payload integration, ground systems, and launch vehicle systems. Software development for data acquisition and control systems. Working knowledge of complex IT systems associated with launch operations. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability 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 buildings. Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise. Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission-critical deadlines.

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