Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab

60 Rocket Lab Usa Senior Software Engineer Jobs Hiring Near You

Software Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER - OPERATIONS SOFTWARE Based onsite at Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA ...

Software Engineer II - MES

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering launch services, spacecraft design, manufacturing, and satellite components to enable vital space missions globally. The Software Engineer II - ...

Software Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER - OPERATIONS SOFTWARE Based onsite at Rocket Lab's Headquarters in Long Beach, CA ...

Senior Accountant

Long Beach, CA

$77K - $97K/yr

FINANCE Rocket Lab's Finance team is responsible for all financial transactions for the company ... Proficiency in accounting software (Such as: Infor Syteline, LN, CostPoint Deltek) and advanced ...

Showing results 41-60

Rocket Lab Jobs Information

Do workers at Rocket Lab get paid breaks?

Yes. Most people get paid breaks.
80% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 10 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Does Rocket Lab pay people when they’re sick?

Yes. Most people get paid when they’re sick.
91% of people say they would get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 11 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

At Rocket Lab, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?

Sick days and vacation days are separate paid time off.
92% of people say they don’t have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 12 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and April 2026.

Is the health insurance from Rocket Lab affordable enough for their workers?

Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
100% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 11 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between April 2025 and April 2026.

Do people get paid time off at Rocket Lab?

Most people get paid time off work.
100% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 12 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and April 2026.

Do workers at Rocket Lab worry about hours?

Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
100% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 8 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and November 2025.

Do Rocket Lab workers get to choose the shifts they work?

Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
43% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 7 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between April 2025 and November 2025.

How easy is it to get time off at Rocket Lab?

Most people find it easy to get time off.
92% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 12 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do Rocket Lab managers change schedules at the last minute?

Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
100% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 9 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and November 2025.

Do jobs at Rocket Lab spill into time workers aren’t paid for?

Rarely. The job doesn't usually spill into unpaid time.
13% of people report that their job takes up time that they don’t get paid for.
Based on data from 8 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and November 2025.

How easy is it to take sick days at Rocket Lab?

Most people find it easy to take sick days.
92% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 13 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people at Rocket Lab feel treated with respect by their managers?

Most people feel treated with respect by their managers.
100% of people say they’re treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 9 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people at Rocket Lab get to take their breaks without interruption?

Most people get breaks without interruption.
67% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 12 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Is it stressful to work at Rocket Lab?

Some people feel stressed out here.
54% of people say they often feel stressed out at work.
Based on data from 13 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people at Rocket Lab enjoy their jobs?

Most people enjoy their job.
80% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 10 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people at Rocket Lab recommend working with their team?

Only some people recommend working with their team.
36% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 14 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people get enough training when they start at Rocket Lab?

Some people didn’t get enough training when they started.
43% of people report they didn’t get enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 14 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people get support to advance at Rocket Lab?

Only some people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 45% of people report not being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 11 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do people think Rocket Lab’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?

Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
70% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 10 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.

Do workers feel well informed about how Rocket Lab is doing?

Only some people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
46% of people feel that they aren’t kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 13 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and April 2026.
What are the most popular jobs at Rocket Lab Usa?
What are the most popular categories at Rocket Lab Usa?

Principal Network Software Engineer - TS/SCI

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

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.

PRINCIPAL NETWORK SOFTWARE ENGINEER - TS/SCI

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Principal Network Software Engineer, to be based out of our headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This role will work with a team of engineers on Rocket Lab's flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space-to-Space Communications, Space-to-Ground Communications, Payload Software, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior experience managing software development efforts for embedded systems and government programs. Knowledge of secure network systems is a must have, with RF and spacecraft experience being an additional benefit. This role will report to the Senior Director of Space Systems Software.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
  • Manage suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system
  • Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones
  • Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking
  • Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams
  • Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program
  • Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership
  • Plan major integration points and testing between teams
  • Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements
  • Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline
  • 12+ years of relevant work industry experience
  • 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors
  • Thorough understanding of network software
  • Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle
  • Experience using Jira for software development management
  • Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • U.S citizenship required due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Master's degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline
  • An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
  • Experience with SDA NEBULA architectures
  • Experience with Cyber Security controls
  • Experience with encryption
  • Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies
  • Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
  • Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach
  • Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc. \
  • Experience with Docker
  • Experience with Kubernetes
  • Experience with DevSecOps
  • Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships

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.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$175,000—$259,000 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.


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