Team Lead - Electron GNC - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided) jobs in United States
cer-icon
Apply on Employer Site
company-logo

Rocket Lab · 1 day ago

Team Lead - Electron GNC - IN NEW ZEALAND (Relocation provided)

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. The Team Lead - Electron GNC will coordinate essential activities across the Electron launch system, focusing on mission design, launch vehicle performance optimization, and GNC-related launch operations.

AerospaceManufacturingSoftwareSpace Travel
badNo H1BnoteU.S. Citizen Onlynote

Responsibilities

Own the GNC pipeline – from algorithm design and mission planning to software implementation and post-flight analysis
Lead development of flight-critical software including auto-sequences, mission-specific trajectories, and launch performance modelling
Manage and mentor a high-performing GNC team, guiding technical direction and career growth
Oversee the verification and release of flight software using HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) testing
Collaborate across engineering, mission management, and business development to ensure mission success
Provide technical feedback on launch vehicle requirements and shape future capabilities

Qualification

GNC algorithmsOrbital mechanicsPythonMATLAB/SciPyC/C++ developmentEmbedded systemsHITL testingLeadershipCommunicationMentoringProblem-solving

Required

A Master's or PhD in Aerospace, Electrical, or Software Engineering
5+ years' experience in aerospace/space systems and developing GNC algorithms for launch vehicles
Deep knowledge of orbital mechanics, rigid body dynamics, and control systems
Strong skills in Python, MATLAB/SciPy, and experience with simulation and flight software
Proven ability to lead technical teams and deliver complex projects under pressure
Excellent communicator with a passion for mentoring and solving hard problems

Preferred

Experience in C/C++ development, embedded or high-reliability systems
Familiarity with Git, cross-functional project delivery, and performance coaching
A proactive, hands-on mindset and a passion for spaceflight

Company

Rocket Lab

company-logo
Rocket Lab is an aerospace company that provides launch services, spacecraft design, and manufacturing of satellite components.

Funding

Current Stage
Public Company
Total Funding
$1.98B
Key Investors
Canadian Space AgencyU.S. Department of CommerceTrinity Capital
2025-12-09Grant
2025-09-15Post Ipo Equity· $750M
2024-11-25Grant· $23.9M

Leadership Team

leader-logo
Adam Spice
Chief Financial Officer
linkedin
leader-logo
Frank Klein
Chief Operations Officer
linkedin
Company data provided by crunchbase