Rocket Lab · 5 hours ago
Principal Network Software Engineer
Littleton, CO
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff
$170K/yr - $230K/yr
12+ years expRocket Lab is an end-to-end space company focused on delivering innovative launch services and spacecraft design. They are seeking a Principal Network Software Engineer to manage software development for space communication systems, ensuring high-quality deliverables while collaborating with various teams and contractors.
AerospaceManufacturingSoftwareSpace Travel
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft
Manage 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
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline
12+ years of relevant work industry experience
3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors
Thorough understanding of network software
Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle
Experience using Jira for software development management
Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
Active TS/SCI clearance
U.S citizenship required due to program requirements
Preferred
Master's degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline
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
Ability 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
Benefits
Company stock
Cash incentives
Discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program
Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
401(k) retirement plan options
Paid vacation
Holidays
Sick leave
Paid parental leave
Other discounts and perks
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
The Motley Fool
2026-02-07
The Motley Fool
2026-02-06
Company data provided by crunchbase