Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab

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Rocket Lab Jobs Information

What is it like to work at Rocket Lab?

Rocket Lab is a dynamic and innovative company that prioritizes a culture of collaboration, experimentation, and continuous learning, fostering an environment where employees can push boundaries and drive progress.

The company's team structure is flat and agile, with a focus on cross-functional collaboration and open communication, allowing employees to work closely with experts from various fields and contribute to the development of cutting-edge space technology. The work environment is fast-paced and challenging, with a strong emphasis on delivering results and meeting ambitious deadlines.

Working at Rocket Lab may appeal to individuals who are passionate about space exploration, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, as the company offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering team that is shaping the future of space technology and exploration.

What makes Rocket Lab an attractive place to work?

Rocket Lab is a leading player in the private space industry, known for its innovative approach to satellite launch and its commitment to making space technology more accessible. The company's workplace culture values collaboration, creativity, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, with a focus on delivering high-quality results in a fast-paced environment. Joining Rocket Lab offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that is shaping the future of space exploration and contributing to groundbreaking projects that have the potential to make a significant impact on society.

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.
Infographic showing various Business Development Lead job openings at Rocket Lab in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Business Development Director, Optical Systems - TS/SCI Clearance

Rocket Lab Corporation

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 22 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.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Rocket Lab's Business Development team is responsible for connecting customers across government and commercial sectors with our industry leading mission solutions spanning launch and space systems. They work closely with new and existing customers to understand their needs and develop tailored solutions to deliver their missions. Building and maintaining relationships with customers and internally with engineering and operations teams is at the core of our Business Development team. They have their fingers on the pulse of the space industry and are driven to deliver results for our customers and our business.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, OPTICAL SYSTEMS – TS/SCI CLEARANCE

Based at Rocket Lab's site in Chantilly, VA, the Business Development Director, Optical Systems is the primary interface between laser communications and optical payload customers and the engineering, production, and management teams. You will report directly to the Senior Director of Business Development, Optical Systems, and your primary responsibilities will include:

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Provide timely responses to all customer technical inquiries regarding Rocket Lab Optical Systems (RLOS) and Mynaric products.
  • Draft proposals for new business opportunities, including Compliance Matrices to customer technical, programmatic, and product assurance requirements.
  • Develop and manage relationships with customers, teaming partners, and industry associations to drive partnerships and new business.
  • Use Rocket Lab internal tools such as Salesforce to track leads, opportunities, and proposals, and generate related KPIs.
  • Monitor sales performance and generate forecasted demand on a product-by-product basis.
  • Track the pipeline trend/fluctuations with total pipeline and in-forecast pipeline breakout.
  • Maintain and improve customer-facing technical documentation, and work with the Engineering team to address any technical gaps.
  • Support the Business Development team by generating quotes and export license applications, and follow up on pending items.
  • Collaborate with the Communications team throughout communications campaigns and manage marketing material or other business unit collaterals.
  • Remain current on the latest satellite competitive landscape, customer demand, and market trends to support sales forecasting, pricing strategy, business plans and product development roadmap.
  • Monitor, research, and analyze competitive landscape to create competitive advantages.
  • Develop and manage bid and proposal budgets to maximize the efficiency of BD resources.
  • Provide guidance and support to capture teams on technical, pricing, and contractual issues.
  • Lead writing efforts for various portions of responses to BAAs, RFIs, and RFPs.
  • Ensure development and delivery of high-quality bid products and artifacts.
  • Support travel to trade shows, conferences and business sites, as needed.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline.
  • 12+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sector.
  • Experience working or selling in the national security space sector.
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • Experience working SCI and SAP/SAR programs.
  • Ability to support frequent domestic and international travel (up to 50%) to meet with clients, attend industry events, and support capture efforts.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Previous experience working for or at the National Reconnaissance Office, Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, and/or Space Rapid Capabilities Office.
  • Business development experience, with deep experience selling to US national security (Space Force, NRO, SDA, etc.) and US Civil Space (NASA, NOAA, etc.)
  • Experience with design, manufacture, and/or test of optical payload and laser communications.
  • Experience with space product lines that align R&D investment, technology/product roadmaps, and future opportunities.
  • Highly organized and able to solve problems independently, with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with team members having diverse skillsets and expertise.
  • Ability to communicate complex issues in a digestible manner for customers, staff, and executives.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
  • Sales management experience and familiarity with diverse business functions such as sales, marketing, public relations, finance, and operations.
  • Extensive awareness of current commercial and government satellite programs.
  • Experience working with dynamic, geographically disperse teams on fast-paced projects.
  • Ability to take ownership and action on challenges and step up to manage tough situations while encouraging colleagues and direct reports to do the same.
  • Practiced with the use of customer relationship management software.
  • Strong understanding of corporate finance and performance management principles.
  • Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field (electrical, mechanical, computer science, etc.).

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 state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. 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 (VA Only)
$185,000—$260,000 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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