Rocket Lab · 1 day ago
Director, Ground Software
Long Beach, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$175K/yr - $250K/yr
12+ years expRocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. They are seeking a Director of Ground Software to lead the development and execution of ground software infrastructure, supporting mission-critical space-to-ground communications and spacecraft production.
AerospaceManufacturingSoftwareSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Define and execute the strategic roadmap for ground software systems, ensuring scalability, security, performance, and mission reliability
Own the architecture and development of end-to-end ground software solutions, including mission control, telemetry processing, data security, spacecraft production software, and RF/network infrastructure
Establish and maintain technical budgets, system requirements, and verification techniques to optimize vehicle-ground integration
Lead multi-disciplinary teams to develop advanced simulations, analysis tools, and testing methodologies
Partner with program and product management to align software capabilities with mission objectives and company goals
Drive innovation in ground software, ensuring adoption of modern technologies, automation, and secure data handling practices
Develop key documentation, including interface specifications, CONOPS, licensing, and design frameworks
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's or Master's degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline
12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including ground systems and mission operations
8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs
Expertise in secure ground data systems, with knowledge of RF and network infrastructure
Expertise in microservice software development
Expertise in time-series and relational databases
Expertise in Python and other software languages
Expertise in Angular and other front-end frameworks
Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations
Preferred
PhD or advanced degree in a related technical field
Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including ADCS, EPS, space-ground communications, and C&DH
Strong background in orbital mechanics, orbit determination, space environment modeling, COLA, and rigid body dynamics
Proficiency in STK, GMAT, or similar space mission analysis tools
Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS)
Experience with MBSE and process automation
Experience with UI and UX development
Experience with AI/ML
Experience with operations procedure development, management, and execution
Hands-on experience with satellite operations, subsystem testing, and HITL validation
Ability to navigate a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with competing priorities
Benefits
Top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option
Dental and vision coverage
3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year
11 paid holidays per year
Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
Paid parental leave
Disability insurance
Life insurance
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match
Discounted employee stock purchase program
Subsidized EV charging stations
Onsite gym
Food and drinks
Other discounts
Company
Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is an aerospace company that provides launch services, spacecraft design, and manufacturing of satellite components.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.98BKey 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
Adam Spice
Chief Financial Officer
Frank Klein
Chief Operations Officer
Recent News
GlobeNewswire
2026-01-22
2026-01-19
Company data provided by crunchbase