Manager Ground Systems Engineering

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.

Lead the Future of Space Exploration as Manager - Ground Systems Engineering

Rocket Lab is redefining whats possible in space and were looking for a visionary Manager - Ground Systems Engineering to lead the team responsible for the systems that make our missions possible. From test stands to launch pads fluid systems to automation technologies this role is at the heart of ensuring Electron and Photon reach orbit seamlessly. If youre ready to take charge of cutting-edge engineering projects and inspire a team to achieve the unthinkable this is your opportunity to make history.

About the Role

As the Manager - Ground Systems Engineering youll lead a team of up to 15 engineers tasked with designing building testing operating and maintaining the systems that support Rocket Labs launch vehicles and spacecraft. Youll oversee large-scale test stands tooling and launch pad systems including vehicle-to-pad interfaces fluid systems structures mechanisms power systems and instrumentation.

This role is focused on delivering new technologies to automate and optimise test and launch operations while improving reliability across Rocket Labs NZ and US sites. Youll be responsible for growing your team driving innovation and ensuring the safety and efficiency of all ground systems.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Directly manage a team of engineers responsible for ground systems design build test operations and maintenance.
• Develop and deliver new technologies to automate and optimize test and launch operations.
• Create technology roadmaps schedules workflows staffing plans and budgets to support ongoing and new projects.
• Establish processes to enhance quality efficiency and collaboration across teams and departments.
• Serve as the technical review and approval authority for engineering projects.
• Ensure safety and reliability of all launch engineering systems.
• Work closely with vehicle engineering teams to define requirements and verification processes.
• Collaborate with site teams for system build maintenance and operations.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory engineering and safety requirements in NZ and the USA.

Team Development & Management

• Recruit mentor and develop a high-performing team of engineers.
• Promote and maintain a positive collaborative and innovative team environment.
• Manage staff performance and administer professional development programs.
• Plan and manage projects to ensure on-time on-budget delivery.

Financial Management

• Develop and maintain accurate budgets to support financial reporting requirements.
• Ensure adherence to company financial policies and procedures.
• Create annual operating plans and budgets to support department objectives.

Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Promote a culture of safety across all operations.
• Report near-misses and incidents promptly and implement corrective actions.

What Were Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Degree in aerospace mechanical electrical or mechatronic engineering (or equivalent).
• 3 years of experience in engineering management.
• 5 years of experience in engineering design testing and/or operations.
• Strong technical background in fluid mechanics structural design and analysis electrical and power systems automation instrumentation control systems and software development.
• Proven ability to motivate and enable a team to deliver complex projects on schedule and within budget.
• Self-driven motivated and contagiously positive attitude.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Meticulous work ethic with an eye for detail.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities.
• 5 years of experience in engineering management.
• 10 years of experience in engineering design testing and/or operations.
• Demonstrated experience in launch site development.
• Familiarity with FAA NASA RCC and USAF compliance programs.

Ready to Lead the Charge

If youre an experienced engineering leader with a passion for innovation and a drive to make history Rocket Lab is the place for you. Apply now and take your career - and humanitys future - to new heights!

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.