Principal Software Security 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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab were not just launching rockets were building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space like solar panels flight software star trackers optical systems separation systems radios and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1700 missions ranging from interplanetary exploration in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft payloads and components for missions to the Moon and Mars working with partners including NASA the Space Development Agency and the U.S. Space its a single high-performance spacecraft constellation or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE SECURITY ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Labs site in Littleton Co we are seeking a Principal Software Security Engineerto lead security architecture and implementation across out integrated hardware-software systems. This role focuses on securing complex cyber-physical systems including embedded platforms avionics ground stations and space vehicle infrastructure.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO :

Systems Security Architecture

• Design and implement securityarchitecturesfor integrated hardware/software systems
• Secure embedded systems firmware FPGA implementations and hardware interfaces
• Develop security controls for satellite buses payload systems and ground segment infrastructure
• Conduct hardware security assessments including supply chain risk analysis and component-level security

Cyber-Physical Security

• Establish security requirements for RF communications telemetry and command systems
• Implement cryptographic key management for space and ground systems
• Secure network infrastructure including air-gapped and classified environments
• Design secure boot chains trusted execution environments and hardware root of trust implementations

Technical Leadership

• Lead cross-functional security reviews involving hardware firmware and software teams
• Mentor engineers on systems security best practices across the full stack
• Drive security integration into DevSecOps pipelines and hardware development
• Interface with government customers on security accreditation requirements (RMF ICD 503 NIST 800-53)

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with DFARS CMMC ITAR and aerospace security standards
• Conduct threat modeling for hardware/software attack surfaces
• Perform security risk assessments for mission critical systems
• Support security certification and accreditation activities

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in Computer Science Information Security or a related field
• 12 years of experience in Cybersecurity with focus on systems embedded or infrastructure security
• Experience with hardware security principles (secure boot TPM HSM side-channel attacks)
• Experience securing embedded Linux RTOS or bare-metal systems
• Demonstrated knowledge ofcryptography implementation in resource-constrained environments
• Expertise in network security including air-gapped architectures and secure enclaves
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Masters degree in Computer Science Information Security or related field
• Active TS/SCI clearance
• Experience with aerospace defense or space systems security
• Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and RF security
• Familiarity with DO-178C DO-254 or similar safety-critical development standards
• Hardware reverse engineering or penetration testing experience
• Certifications: CISSP GIAC (GPEN GXPN) CEH or equivalent
• Experience with FPGA security or hardware design tools (Vivavo Quartus)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision distance vision peripheral vision depth perception and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit use hands and fingers operate computer keyboard and controls and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust fumes and moderate levels of noise

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.