Senior Flight Software Engineer - Electron

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an established global leader in launch and space systems, building rockets and satellites that support crucial space missions worldwide. Their Electron rocket has been reliably ferrying payloads to orbit since 2018 and is among the most frequently launched rockets globally. The upcoming Neutron rocket will offer a 13-tonne payload capacity and reusability for future mega constellation launches. Their space systems business has contributed to over 1,700 missions, including high-profile projects like the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA's Psyche Mission, Artemis I, and the Mars Ingenuity helicopter.

Role Overview

The Electron Flight Software team develops, maintains, and supports the essential software systems for the Electron launch vehicle and its kick-stage. This includes creating avionics control software, telemetry and command management, and guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms.

This position entails ownership of multiple core components of the Electron flight software architecture and spearheading significant new projects that aim to achieve a 100% mission success rate during the increased launch schedule. Ensuring flight software reliability and adaptability via stringent design, review, and verification processes through both software and hardware-in-the-loop testing will be key.

Candidate Attributes

Ideal candidates move swiftly, take full responsibility for major project deliveries, and collaborate effectively across teams, all while upholding top-quality standards.

Qualifications

• A relevant engineering degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a similar field.
• At least five years of proven embedded software development experience using C and C++.
• Experience with software development in a Linux environment, particularly embedded applications.
• Track record of success managing competing priorities in a dynamic work setting.
• Proficiency with software version control systems, specifically Git.
• Experience developing embedded system software and drivers utilizing UDP/TCP protocols.
• Familiarity with Embedded Linux deployment processes, including Yocto.

Preferred Additional Skills

• Professional background in SoC and FPGA design, such as VHDL.
• Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) like uC/OS or FreeRTOS.
• Embedded software development in multi-threaded and multi-processor environments.
• Strong foundation in mathematics and engineering principles.
• Python programming experience.
• Experience working within Agile development workflows.

Employee Benefits

• Work on cutting-edge, innovative technology.
• Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship.
• Participation in an employee stock purchase plan.
• Access to industry-leading experts to aid in career growth.
• Unlimited barista-style coffee, fresh fruit, and snacks.
• Company merchandise including T-shirts and mission patches.
• Discounted Southern Cross health insurance.
• Enhanced parental leave options.
• A lively team culture with regular social events.

Additional Information

Applicants should expect a fast-paced, challenging work environment that demands determination, innovation, teamwork, and resilience. Rocket Lab values humility, team supportiveness, and high productivity under pressure.

Important for candidates wishing to work in the United States: Compliance with U.S. space technology export laws (such as ITAR) is mandatory, and employees must either be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees/asylees, or eligible for specific government authorizations.

Important for candidates applying in New Zealand: Background and nationality checks will be performed to ensure eligibility under ITAR regulations. Citizenship requirements include citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries, or other eligible statuses; ineligible dual nationality may disqualify candidates.