Senior Software Engineer - Operations Software

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company engaged in building rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems that maintain global connectivity and security, while advancing human exploration to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The company is known for rapid development, manufacturing tangible hardware for impactful missions, and consistently achieving challenging objectives.

Neutron Program

The Neutron team at Rocket Lab is spearheading the creation of a new large rocket named Neutron, along with its associated launch and test facilities across the US. This involves tasks ranging from designing and testing structural components and engines to constructing launch pads and test infrastructure, offering a unique chance to contribute to a pioneering space launch vehicle.

Role Overview

We seek a Senior Software Engineer specializing in Operations Software, located in Auckland, New Zealand, to develop, maintain, deploy, and support software elements relevant to launch vehicles and spacecraft operations. This position requires autonomous engineering work and ownership of deliverables, contributing to high-impact space projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, ingest, and store telemetry data from various sources including launch operations, spacecraft operations, integrated system tests, operational simulations, and subsystem tests.
• Design and implement software features, write relevant tests, and shape architectural decisions aligned with product needs and issue resolutions.
• Document software products operationally to support usability and maintenance.
• Manage source control workflows and code reviews, establishing quality standards.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum five years of relevant professional experience.
• Proficiency using Git for version control.
• Experience with issue tracking tools such as Redmine, Jira, or equivalents.
• Strong skills in Golang development.
• Knowledge of designing scalable and high-performance systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of network protocols including UDP, TCP, gRPC, and CCSDS.
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies like Scrum or Kanban.
• Experience with Linux container technologies.
• Exposure to cloud-based application development.
• System administration capabilities.
• Working knowledge of continuous integration and deployment pipelines.
• Experience defining shared data models.
• Python programming skills.

Work Culture

The company culture is characterized by relentless innovation, teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to challenging the impossible. Employees are expected to work efficiently under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and focus on delivering solutions rather than obstacles, all while supporting each other and maintaining humility.

Additional Information - Compliance

Candidates targeting US office roles must comply with US Government space technology regulations, including ITAR, which require US citizenship, permanent residency, or eligibility for related governmental authorizations.

Applicants for New Zealand office roles will undergo security background checks prior to potential hiring, ensuring eligibility to access equipment and data regulated under US ITAR. Eligible nationalities include countries like Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU members, NATO members, among others. Applicants with ineligible citizenship or dual citizenship may not qualify.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Rocket Lab is dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, disability, genetics, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. This policy extends across all employment aspects including recruitment, compensation, promotion, and training.