Senior Software Engineer I

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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.

Senior Software Engineer I - MES

Based at Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, NM, the Senior Software Engineer I - MES will collaborate with teams across Engineering, Manufacturing, Technicians, and Operations to develop full-stack software solutions that improve the efficiency of critical Rocket Lab operations. This role focuses on the in-house Manufacturing Execution System (MES) platform, as well as tools that integrate with the ERP system and related products. These applications rely heavily on relational databases and REST APIs, both upstream and downstream, as part of service-oriented architecture.

• Operate across the full stack, demonstrating expertise in areas such as frontend or backend development, database administration, UI/UX design, product ownership, DevOps, Or Site Reliability Engineering (SRE)
• Develop world-class software using best practices, including automated testing (unit integration, and end-to-end) code reviews, Agile methodologies, and project management tools like Jira
• Leverage version control systems (e.g., Git) to manage code, maintain thorough documentation, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders
• Provide user support and ensure seamless integration with related technical systems outside your immediate area of responsibility
• Solve complex engineering challenges by proposing innovative solutions, sharing insights into technical concepts, and navigating tasks within your technical domain

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of professional experience in full-stack software engineering
• Strong Git skills for version control and collaboration
• Proficiency in C#, and TypeScript
• Operational knowledge of Angular or another front-end framework, .NET or another backend framework, Git, SQL, and HTML/CSS
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Would Be Nice To Have

• Proficiency in RabbitMQ, Docker, Kubernetes, and Elasticsearch
• Experience in aerospace domains such as Launch Operations, ERP, QMS, and PLM