Senior Ground Software Engineer I/II

Senior Ground Software Engineer I/II As a Senior Ground Software Engineer I/II based out of Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you will serve as a technical authority for spacecraft ground software across our Space Systems missions. You will help define and evolve the end‑to‑end architecture of ground systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and mission success for both internal teams and external customers. This role is highly visible, with deliverables that support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors. Responsibilities Own major parts of architecture and evolve Rocket Lab’s web‑based ground software platforms for spacecraft operations. Partner with flight software developers, mission operations personnel, and systems engineers to translate mission needs into scalable ground system designs. Deploy, configure, and optimize the Rocket Lab Ground Data System for diverse mission profiles. Establish robust monitoring, alerting, and reliability frameworks to proactively detect and mitigate issues. Provide technical direction and architectural guidance to ensure mission resilience, system integration, and long‑term maintainability. Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on ground software strategy, risk areas, and emerging technologies. Qualifications – Senior Ground Software Engineer I Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline. 5+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development. Proven track record architecting web‑based software systems at scale. Strong systems‑level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade‑offs across performance, security, and maintainability. U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements. Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one. Qualifications – Senior Ground Software Engineer II Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline. 8+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development. Proven track record architecting web‑based software systems at scale. Strong systems‑level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade‑offs across performance, security, and maintainability. U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements. Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one. Nice to Have Active TS clearance. Backend – Python, Golang, and/or Rust. Frontend – Typescript and Angular. Database – InfluxDB, PostgreSQL, or equivalent. Experience with end‑to‑end testing frameworks like Playwright. Aerospace background supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, or launch vehicle ground/mission operations. Experience designing with Python web frameworks (FastAPI or equivalent). Deep knowledge of microservice architectures and distributed systems. Demonstrated leadership in end‑to‑end system design and delivery with engineering teams. Ability to produce clear, well‑structured, and well‑documented software designs. Familiarity with database architecture, schema design, and optimization. Expertise in Git‑based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestration. Understanding of modern authentication/authorization frameworks (OAuth, etc.). Knowledge of CCSDS standards, including Space Packet Protocol, COP‑1, and CFD. Additional Requirements Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods. Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed. Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision. Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed. Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas. Base Pay Range (CA Only) $130,000 - $175,000 USD Benefits (Summary) Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including medical coverage (HMO, PPO, HSA), dental and vision, paid vacation and sick leave, holidays, flexible spending, parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) with company match, and additional perks such as discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging, onsite gym and meals. Equal Employment Opportunity Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr