Senior IT Systems Engineer I
Rocketlab · Long Beach, CA · Posted Jul 2, 2026
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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.
IT
Rocket Lab’s IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem-solvers working in a fast-paced environment, but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.
SENIOR IT SYSTEMS ENGINEER I
Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior IT Systems Engineer will join a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment. This role will be responsible for the design, implementation, and operation of all IT Infrastructure relating to Corporate IT, Launch, Space Systems and their related Operations.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Provide subject matter expertise, advice, and guidance to deliver and support IT systems through efficient management of the cloud infrastructure and the delivery of projects
Provide IT support for Mission operations
Carry out upgrades, maintenance, and with a focus on continuous improvement to provide a reliable and secure infrastructure
Lead project planning and deployment for infrastructure projects
Work with a team of world class IT, engineering, and business professionals
Maintain the efficient and effective operation of upgrades or migrations by implementing changes as required
Troubleshoot user software or hardware problems in line with project tasks policies
Perform site-specific risk mitigation activities as part of change/configuration management to ensure smooth implementation of, and transition to, new system software delivery/packaging and configuration management automation capabilities
Create, test, and distribute common operating systems, application packages, scripts, batch programs to provide software delivery/packaging and configuration management of the computing platform environment
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
5+ years of experience and a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience with a high school diploma or GED (9+ total years)
In-depth knowledge of:
Windows Server Administration: Active Directory, Group Policy, Certificate Management (PKI), DNS, or DHCP
AWS and/or O365 Azure enterprise environments
One or more of the following: Kubernetes, VMware, Linux, Configuration Management, Automation, and/or Infrastructure as Code
One or more of the following: Server and Storage hardware, Backups, NetApp, Pure Storage, hyperconverged infrastructure, VOIP phone systems
U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% of the time, both domestically and internationally
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Specialist qualification in area of expertise: CISM, AWS, Azure, Microsoft, etc.
Juniper or Cisco network switching IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.
One or more of the following: Security frameworks / technology: ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, CMMC, CUI
Fortinet firewall setup, configuration, and management
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
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. O…