Senior IT Systems Engineer I

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, and expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine.

About the role

Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s Albuquerque, New Mexico facility, the Senior IT Systems Engineer will be responsible for the design, implementation, and operation of the different platform and operating system environments in use at Rocket Lab, including VMware, Kubernetes, Linux, Windows Server, and Client. This role reports to the Team Lead - IT Infrastructure Manager.

Responsibilities

• Enable Rocket Lab Engineers globally by leveraging the latest platform technology to efficiently design, manufacture, and manage the next generation of rockets and space systems.
• Provide subject matter expertise, advice, and guidance to deliver and support IT systems through efficient management of the platform infrastructure and the delivery of projects.
• Lead upgrades, maintenance, and continuous improvement to provide a reliable and secure infrastructure.
• Lead project planning and deployment for platform infrastructure projects (VMware, Kubernetes, Linux, Windows) in support of Annual Operating Plan goals.
• Champion configuration management at Rocket Lab by implementing standards for deployment and management of platforms via automation (e.g., Ansible) to ensure:
  • Compliance with Rocket Lab Policies
  • Compliance with Cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures
  • Improvements to increase reliability of systems
  • System High Availability and Disaster Recovery
  • Simplified and consistent environment management practices
  • Complete and compliant system baselines and hardening guides for each OS and environment
  • Automated build, deployment, and maintenance processes for each OS and environment
  • Clear and concise reporting on usage, uptime, support levels, etc.
  • Comprehensive documentation of environments and support
  • Efficient cost control

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in IT and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of working experience (9+ years total).
• 3+ years of experience in a platform-focused technology role.
• In-depth experience working with Ansible.
• In-depth knowledge of one or more of the following: Kubernetes, VMware, Linux Configuration Management, Automation, and/or Infrastructure as Code.

Nice-to-have Qualifications

• Scripting, automation, or Infrastructure as Code experience.
• Familiarity with security frameworks and technology: ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.
• Network (LAN/WAN) and security product support experience.
• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills – able to see the big picture, make connections, and appropriate decisions.
• Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes.

Work Environment

This 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.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.