IT Systems Engineer I

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise dedicated to designing rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems that maintain global connectivity, security, and advance human exploration to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We operate rapidly, build tangible hardware for impactful missions, and routinely achieve what many consider impossible. Join us in shaping the future.

Role Overview

The IT Systems Engineer I will be based at Rocket Lab's Auckland Production Complex in Mt. Wellington and work within a dynamic, team-driven manufacturing setting. This role entails managing, implementing, and maintaining a variety of platform and operating system environments including VMware, Kubernetes, Linux, and Windows Server and Client.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer expert advice and guidance to effectively manage cloud infrastructure and support IT systems.
• Execute upgrades, ongoing maintenance, and focus on continuous enhancements ensuring a reliable and secure infrastructure.
• Lead planning and execution of infrastructure-related projects.
• Collaborate with a world-class team of IT, engineering, and business experts.
• Develop automated workflows for software delivery, system deployment, and configuration management across the enterprise SCCM hierarchy.
• Manage smooth operation of upgrades and migrations by applying necessary changes.
• Diagnose and resolve software or hardware user issues in line with project policies.
• Engage in risk mitigation as part of change and configuration management for seamless implementation of new software and automation tools.
• Create, test, and deploy standardized operating systems, application packages, scripts, and batch programs to maintain computing environment configuration.

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of 2 years’ experience with a bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of total 6+ years with a high school diploma or GED.
• Strong proficiency in Windows Server management including Active Directory, Group Policy, Certificate Management (PKI), DNS, and DHCP.
• Experience with AWS, Office 365, and/or Azure enterprise platforms.
• Familiarity with at least one core technology: Kubernetes, VMware, Linux, Configuration Management, Automation, or Infrastructure as Code.
• Knowledge of one or more areas such as server and storage hardware, backup processes, NetApp or Pure Storage, hyperconverged infrastructure, and VOIP systems.

Preferred Skills

• Specialist certifications in AWS, Azure, Microsoft, or related technologies.
• Experience with Juniper or Cisco networking, including IPSEC, SSL VPNs, and firewalls.
• Understanding of security frameworks and technologies such as ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, CMMC, and CUI compliance.
• Hands-on skills in Fortinet firewall configuration and management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication capabilities.

Working Conditions

This position may involve extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, working on computers, and occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab is committed to unlocking space’s potential to enhance life on Earth, which demands innovation, determination, teamwork, and a can-do attitude. Employees work under pressure with tight deadlines, supporting each other with humility and persistence.

For US Office Candidates:
Employment eligibility is restricted by U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR). Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or possess appropriate governmental authorizations.

Equal Opportunity:
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

Accommodation:
Applicants with disabilities requiring accommodations during application or interview should contact the designated resource. Response times may take up to two business days.

For New Zealand Office Candidates:
Background checks including nationality verification will be conducted due to ITAR compliance. Candidates must hold citizenship from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO member countries, or be eligible per regulations. Dual citizenships ineligible under ITAR may affect eligibility.