Personnel Security (PERSEC) Lead

About the role

The Personnel Security (PERSEC) Lead at Rocket Lab is responsible for overseeing and executing the company's personnel security program. This role ensures full compliance with the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and relevant government regulations, enabling the business to secure classified work and support national security missions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the enterprise-wide Personnel Security program, ensuring compliance with 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) and all applicable DoD and Intelligence Community requirements.
• Oversee end-to-end clearance processing, including initial investigations, periodic reinvestigations, Continuous Vetting updates, upgrades, SCI nominations, polygraph coordination, as well as briefings and debriefings.
• Serve as the primary interface with DCSA, DoD, and IC PERSEC representatives for all clearance-related matters.
• Ensure accurate and timely submissions and management within DISS, NBIS, and other government systems of record.
• Develop and maintain internal controls, SOPs, and metrics to ensure audit readiness and continuous compliance under the company’s FCL, 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) and all applicable DoD and Intelligence Community requirements.
• Lead adverse information reporting, incident management, and coordination with Insider Threat, Legal, and HR to ensure proper handling and mitigation.
• Partner with Leadership and Talent Acquisition to forecast clearance demand, reduce processing cycle times, and align personnel security actions with business growth objectives.
• Provide subject matter expertise to senior leadership regarding clearance strategy, eligibility risk, and program impact to contracts and revenue.
• Train managers and employees on clearance responsibilities, reporting obligations, and security best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in security management, business, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in Industrial Security with significant focus on Personnel Security (PERSEC).
• Deep working knowledge of 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM) requirements, DISS, NBIS, TALON, and related DoD/IC systems.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with a current SSBI and must maintain an active Top Secret SCI clearance with polygraph as required by program sponsor(s).
• Domestic travel may be required (25%).

What to Expect

Rocket Lab is committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe in treating each other with respect, encouraging open communication, and celebrating diversity. Our team members come from diverse backgrounds and bring unique perspectives and experiences, which enrich our work and drive us to achieve our goals.