Senior Network Software Engineer I - Secret Clearance

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
• Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones.
• Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking.
• Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams.
• Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership.
• Plan major integration points and testing between teams.
• Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
• Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant work industry experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of network software.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active Secret security clearance, with eligibility to obtain TS/SCI.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

What You’ll Get To Do

Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft. Interface directly with suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system. Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones. Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking. Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams. Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program. Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership. Plan major integration points and testing between teams. Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements. Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

Qualifications You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant work industry experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of network software.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Active Secret security clearance, with eligibility to obtain TS/SCI.
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements.

Additional Qualifications

• Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
• Experience with SDA NEBULA architectures.
• Experience with Cyber Security controls.
• Experience with encryption.
• Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies.
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Able to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc.
• Experience with Docker.
• Experience with Kubernetes.
• Experience with DevSecOps.
• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships.