Senior Ground Software Engineer 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 GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER I/II As a Senior Ground Software Engineer I/II based at Rocket Lab’s site in Littleton, CO, you will serve as a technical authority for spacecraft ground software across our Space Systems missions. You will help define and evolve the end-to-end architecture of ground systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and mission success for both internal teams and external customers. This role is highly visible, with deliverables that support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Own major parts of architecture and evolve Rocket Lab’s web-based ground software platforms for spacecraft operations. Partner with flight software developers, mission operations personnel, and systems engineers to translate mission needs into scalable ground system designs. Deploy, configure, and optimize the Rocket Lab Ground Data System for diverse mission profiles. Establish robust monitoring, alerting, and reliability frameworks to proactively detect and mitigate issues. Provide technical direction and architectural guidance to ensure mission resilience, system integration, and long-term maintainability. Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on ground software strategy, risk areas, and emerging technologies. (Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Ground Software Engineer I or Senior Ground Software Engineer II level) QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER I: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline 5+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development Proven track record architecting web-based software systems at scale Strong systems-level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade-offs across performance, security, and maintainability U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR GROUND SOFTWARE ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline 8+ years of relevant work experience in professional software development Proven track record architecting web-based software systems at scale Strong systems-level thinking, with ability to balance technical trade-offs across performance, security, and maintainability U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Full-stack development experience, including: Backend – Python, Golang, and/or Rust Frontend – Typescript and Angular Database – InfluxDB, PostgreSQL, or equivalent Experience with end-to-end testing frameworks like Playwright Aerospace background supporting satellite, spacecraft, constellation, or launch vehicle ground/mission operations Experience designing with Python web frameworks (FastAPI or equivalent) Deep knowledge of microservice architectures and distributed systems Demonstrated leadership in end-to-end system design and delivery with engineering teams Ability to produce clear, well-structured, and well-documented software designs Familiarity with database architecture, schema design, and optimization Expertise in Git-based workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and Kubernetes orchestration Understanding of modern authentication/authorization frameworks (OAuth, etc.) Knowledge of CCSDS standards, including Space Packet Protocol, COP-1, and CFD ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 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 The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensati