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Full-Time

Technical Program Manager

Updated on 11/7/2024

Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab USA

1,001-5,000 employees

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

Aerospace
Defense

Compensation Overview

$120k - $180kAnnually

Mid, Senior, Expert

No H1B Sponsorship

Long Beach, CA, USA

US Citizenship Required

Category
Project Management
Engineering Management
Business & Strategy
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, math, or other technical discipline
  • 5+ years of program management experience in the aerospace industry
  • Direct technical experience as an engineer supporting satellite and/or space programs
  • 10+ years of demonstrated space system program management experience across multiple spacecraft flight projects/programs
  • Experience with managing employees
  • Thorough understanding of space systems and subsystems, and depth across multiple spacecraft engineering disciplines
  • Experience with systems engineering methods, including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management
  • Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systematic approach
  • Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
  • Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Teamcenter, etc.
  • Experience managing both low and high-cost space programs, as well as deep space and LEO missions
  • Experience working with government customers, government requirements, and government project management practices
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
  • Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
  • Must be physically able to commute to buildings
  • Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the program manager for the design, development, test, and production phases of Rocket Lab’s space systems for low Earth orbit and/or deep space missions
  • Deliver Rocket Lab’s space systems to the launch pad on time and within budget
  • Work in collaboration with Space Systems Chief Engineer to plan and execute programs
  • Identify implementation issues and proactively develop recovery plans before schedule and cost impacts are realized
  • Approve selection and make/buy decisions of spacecraft components and manage subcontracts
  • Report program status, issues, and problems to Rocket Lab senior leadership
  • Lead or approve input into proposal development and business development activities
  • Serve as a team leader and take accountability for the cost and schedule performance of the team
  • Manage relationship with a broad set of cross-functional engineering and production teams to deliver on program goals
  • Develop and maintain professional working relationships with all program stakeholders across the company
  • Travel domestically and internationally regularly to support programs

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket since its debut in 2018, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit for various sectors. Rocket Lab differentiates itself from competitors by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, with multiple launch sites and a focus on affordability and reliability. The company's goal is to make space more accessible and to support a wide range of missions, from national security to scientific exploration.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$1.5B

Headquarters

Long Beach, California

Founded

2006

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

14%

1 year growth

34%

2 year growth

77%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • The expansion in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with a $70 million investment and creation of 100 new jobs, indicates strong growth and job opportunities.
  • Significant investments from firms like Verus Capital Partners and Susquehanna Fundamental Investments reflect strong market confidence in Rocket Lab's future.
  • Government funding, including $41 million from the Chips Act and $44 million from New Mexico, bolsters Rocket Lab's financial stability and capacity for innovation.

What critics are saying

  • The competitive landscape of the space industry, with major players like SpaceX, could pressure Rocket Lab to continuously innovate to maintain its market position.
  • Delays or failures in the development of the Neutron launch vehicle could impact Rocket Lab's ability to capture larger payload markets.

What makes Rocket Lab USA unique

  • Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicle is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, showcasing a proven track record of reliability and success.
  • The company's Photon spacecraft platform has been selected for high-profile NASA missions, including those to the Moon and Mars, setting it apart from competitors.
  • Rocket Lab's dual launch sites in New Zealand and Virginia provide operational flexibility and increased launch frequency, a strategic advantage over competitors with fewer launch sites.

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