Senior Linux Engineer / Kubernetes Engineer

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 rockethas 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.

At Rocket Lab we dont just build rocketswe build the technology that fuels innovation launches satellites and pushes the boundaries of space. Now were looking for a Senior Linux Engineer to help us power the systems that power the future.

If youre passionate about Linux systems thrive in complex environments and love solving problems that others find impossible this is your mission.

SENIOR LINUX / KUBERNETES ENGINEER

As our Senior Linux Engineer/ Kubernetes Engineer youll take charge of designing deploying maintaining and improving the infrastructure that supports Rocket Labs operationsfrom production to launch. Youll work hands-on with systems and networks lead critical IT projects and play a vital role in ensuring everything runs smoothly securely and efficiently.

Youll also mentor junior team members contribute to documentation and security compliance and help shape the IT environment that supports our rapid growth and innovation.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Maintain and optimise our Linux systems virtualised environments and cloud infrastructure.
• Lead system health audits hardware/software deployments and patch management.
• Support network infrastructure (switches routers APs) and ensure robust connectivity.
• Drive and deliver cross-functional IT projects from planning to execution.
• Mentor the team improve documentation and ensure high standards of security & compliance (NIST 800-171 PSR).
• Provide launch operations support and be a key part of the action when we send missions to space.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 7 years in technical roles with a strong focus on Linux (Ubuntu Debian).
• Mastery of scripting automation and infrastructure as code (e.g. Git Ansible Terraform)
• Proven experience in designing deploying and administering production-grade Kubernetes clusters
• Deep experience with virtualization & cloud platforms: VMware Docker Azure AWS.
• Knowledge of cloud-native stacks like LAMP NGINX Squid and container orchestration tools.
• Familiarity with security frameworks: NIST 800-171 ISO 27001 and best practices in risk mitigation.
• Excellent problem-solving communication and leadership skills.
• A hands-on get-it-done mindset with a passion for innovation.

If youre ready to lead the charge in Linux engineering and support world-class space missions - Apply now.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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 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 hereITAR Regulations.