Senior Program Manager I

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 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.  

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our 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. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions

SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER I

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Program Manager oversees project execution, interfaces with customers, defines internal programmatic processes, and leads decision-making strategy. This Rocket Lab facility manufactures satellite components; their products include separation systems, on-orbit mechanisms, and other electro-mechanical deployables. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Define program requirements (external & internal) based on customer proposals
• Analyze cost and schedule data to produce improved processes and outcomes
• Identify, track, and mitigate technical and programmatic risks
• Maintain relationships with customers and work to build long-term partnerships
• Facilitate cross-functional planning and project execution, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and consistent with business strategy and expectations.
• Communicate with all levels of the organization the objectives, status, risks, and needs for the program.
• Identify opportunities for improving overall performance of the program.
• Contributes to business unit and divisional strategy planning
• Develop reporting and tracking programs to assure the project is on target for schedule and cost
• Identify key risks and collaboratively prepare contingency plans
• Contribute to new product marketing and manufacturing plans ensuring effective programmatic controls

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of program management experience in a production or product‑development environment within aerospace or a similar industry
• Experience managing project or program management activities for NPI
• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in a relevant engineering field or in business
• Demonstrated competence in problem‑solving, data analysis, and project planning
• Experience complying with federally mandated requirements under U.S. export‑control laws

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Passionate interest in the satellite industry
• Masters in Business, Operations, or a related engineering field
• Passionate drive to learn new concepts and take on new challenges
• Outstanding attention to detail and high-quality outputs
• Strong communication skills to effectively communicate at all levels of the organization enabling efficient decision-making
• Familiarity with common satellite manufacturing and test processes
• Familiarity with common metal fabrication processes (CNC, EDM, lathe, stamping, additive, etc.)
• Management or Strategy consulting experience
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Systems Engineering or Industrial Engineering with a focus on manufacturing, operations, or logistics
• Experience interpreting and negotiating contract terms and conditions
• Knowledge of ITAR processes and regulations

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus 
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, flex schedule, free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week, and free snacks/drinks.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (MD Only)$107,000—$135,000 USD

 

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. 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.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

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, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

 

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.