Senior Program Manager I/II

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 PROGRAM MANAGER I/II - NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Program Manager oversees project execution, interfaces with customers, defines internal programmatic processes, and leads decision-making strategy. This Rcket Lab facility manufactures satellite components; their products include separation systems, on-orbit mechanisms, and other electro-mechanical deployables. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

(PLEASE NOTE: This role can be hired at the Senior Program Manager I or Senior Program Manager II)

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO :

Define program requirements (external internal) based on customer proposals

Regularly interface with Engineering leadership and systems engineer

Maintain relationships with customers and work to build long-term partnerships

Facilitate cross-functional planning and project execution, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and consistent with business strategy and expectations.

Communicate with all levels of the organization the objectives, status, risks, and needs for the program.

Develop reporting and tracking programs to assure the project is on target for schedule and cost

Identify key risks and collaboratively prepare contingency plans

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER II:

5+ years of program management experience in product development environment within aerospace manufacturing or a similar industry

5+ years of project or program management New Product Development experience

BS or BA in engineering, business, or a relevant field

Demonstrated competence in problem-solving, data analysis, project planning

Experience following federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A New Product Development, Senior Program Manager III:

8+ years of program management experience in product development environment within aerospace manufacturing or a similar industry

8+ years of project or program management New Product Development experience

Clear understanding of how the manufacturing validation process runs in relation to new products (methodology, validation plans, associated KPIs). Able to facilitate continuous development and betterment of process

Outstanding problem-solving skills; adverse in various problem-solving methodologies

BS or BA in engineering, business, or a relevant field

Demonstrated competence in problem-solving, data analysis, project planning

Experience following federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Passionate drive to learn new concepts and take on new challenges

Outstanding attention to detail and high-quality outputs

Strong communication skills to effectively communicate at all levels of the organization enabling efficient decision-making

Familiarity with common …