Software Technical Project Manager

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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab's 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.

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Software Technical Project Manager

• 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 roadmaps, 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.
• Plan major integration points and testing between teams.
• Lead software teams agile ceremonies including Increment Planning, Stakeholder reviews, and retrospectives / backlog refinement.
• Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership.
• Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.
• Bachelor’s degree & 8+ years industry experience in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors.
• Thorough understanding of network software.
• Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile methodologies including Scaled Agile (SAFe), etc.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• 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.
• Awareness of ITAR regulations.

What To Expect

• It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible.
• We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small.
• We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.