Manager - Neutron Software - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided)

Responsibilities

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• FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
• Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color

Benefits

Additional Information

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. THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND WITH RELOCATION PROVIDED. NEUTRON Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket, Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. Are you ready to make a profound impact on the space industry? At Rocket Lab, we're looking for a visionary leader to take the reins of flight software development for Neutron, our new, reusable rocket that's redefining space access for Rocket Lab and the planet. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: As the Neutron Software Manager, you'll lead the charge in developing and deploying the software that brings Neutron to life, from Flight 1 through numerous upgrades to software resilience and reliability. You'll collaborate closely with GNC, Hardware-In-The-Loop, and ground software teams, ensuring seamless integration and performance across all systems. Your leadership will inspire a high-performance culture built on ownership, empowerment, and accountability. You'll guide your team through challenging milestones, balancing priorities, resources, and risks, while fostering innovation and career growth. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Master's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent expertise 5+ years' of Software Engineering experience 2+ years' of direct people leadership experience, including mentorship and career development 2+ years' of project leadership experience in schedule-sensitive programs Experience with software deployment and CI tooling, data processing, and data engineering Proficiency in Git and issue trackers, with experience in system languages like C++ THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Experience with highly reliable software systems and requirements-driven design A solid understanding of GNC principles Familiarity with Machine Learning and/or Bazel WHY THIS ROLE IS EXTRAORDINARY: This isn't just a job - it's a chance to shape the future of how Rocket Lab does launch vehicle software. You'll be the driving force behind the software systems that balance the old with the new, and above all, your leadership will directly influence the success of Neutron. If you're ready to take on this cutting-edge challenge, apply now and join us in building the future of spaceflight! Apply now and join us in building the future of spaceflight!

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