Contract Senior Software Developer Jobs in Colorado

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 to 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 rocket has 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, we're not just launching rockets - we're 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 1,700 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 Force. Whether it's 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.
SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I/II - DIGITAL ENGINEERING
Are you passionate about advancing aerospace technology through cutting-edge software solutions? We're looking for a driven Senior Software Engineer I/II to join our Digital Engineering team, based out of our Littleton, CO site. You will play a pivotal role in developing next-generation simulation and modeling tools that support aerospace systems, including flight software and ground software capabilities. This role offers the opportunity to work on innovative projects that enhance aerospace systems through scalable architectures, intuitive user interfaces, and robust software solutions.
You'll be part of a collaborative team, contributing to all phases of software development-from requirements definition and design to coding, testing, and deployment. Our stack includes .NET, Angular, and relational databases, with a focus on scalable architectures and RESTful APIs.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Design, develop, and maintain simulation and modeling tools that support aerospace systems, including flight and ground software capabilities
• Design and develop mission level wargaming tools encompassing space, air, and ground domains
• Design products for analyzing laser communication constellation networks
• Develop application software based on web technologies that runs across multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux
• Apply UI/UX best practices to create streamlined, intuitive user interfaces for simulation and configuration tools
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze requirements, define system architectures, and deliver high-quality solutions
• Participate in design reviews (e.g., PDR, CDR) and contribute to the refinement of system requirements and technical specifications
• Conduct code reviews to ensure adherence to company coding standards and best practices
• Optimize software performance and scalability for large-scale simulations and data processing

(Please note: This position can be hired at the Senior Software Engineer I or Senior Software Engineer II level.)
QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• 5+ years of experience in software development, with a focus on simulation, modeling, or aerospace systems
• Proficiency in C#/.NET and Angular (or similar frontend frameworks like React or Vue)
• Experience with TypeScript/JavaScript and building RESTful APIs
• Solid grasp of object-oriented programming principles and design patterns
• U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• 8+ years of experience in software development, with a focus on simulation, modeling, or aerospace systems
• Proficiency in C#/.NET and Angular (or similar frontend frameworks like React or Vue)
• Experience with TypeScript/JavaScript and building RESTful APIs
• Solid grasp of object-oriented programming principles and design patterns
• U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Active Secret clearance, Top Secret clearance, or ability to obtain and maintain one
• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience with Docker/Kubernetes for containerization and orchestration
• Knowledge of network programming (e.g., Sockets, WebSockets) for real-time data exchange
• Strong understanding of relational databases (e.g., MySQL, SQL Server, SQLite)
• Passion for rapid prototyping and software integration leveraging AI tools
• Passion for UI/UX design
• Experience with space mission analysis tools such as STK, or similar
• Experience with modeling of physical systems
• Familiarity with Git and modern version control workflows.
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments and contributing to iterative development cycles
• Advanced knowledge of Angular NgRx or other state management libraries
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex systems
• A team-oriented mindset with excellent communication skills and a positive attitude

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.
Base Pay Range (CO Only)
$125,000-$160,000 USD
WHAT TO EXPECT
We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's 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 other's 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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 here ITAR Regulations.