Senior Linux Engineer / Kubernetes Engineer

Space Talent; Auckland; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Auckland is seeking a Senior Linux Engineer to design and maintain critical systems that support space missions. The role involves managing Linux systems, leading IT projects, and mentoring team members. Ideal candidates should have over 7 years of Linux experience and mastery in Kubernetes and cloud platforms. Competitive salary and dynamic work environment included.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working conditions

Qualifications

• 7+ years in technical roles focusing on Linux.
• Experience in designing, deploying production Kubernetes clusters.
• Deep experience with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and optimize Linux systems and cloud infrastructure.
• Lead system health audits and patch management.
• Mentor junior team members and improve documentation.

Skills

Linux experience

Scripting and automation

Kubernetes

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Tools

Docker

Terraform

Git

AWS

Azure

Job description

Overview

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 space. We support scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and technology demonstrations.

At Rocket Lab, we don’t just build rockets—we build the technology that fuels innovation and launches satellites. We are looking for a Senior Linux Engineer to help power the systems that power the future.

SENIOR LINUX / KUBERNETES ENGINEER

As our Senior Linux Engineer/ Kubernetes Engineer, you’ll take charge of designing, deploying, maintaining, and improving the infrastructure that supports Rocket Lab’s operations—from production to launch. You’ll work hands-on with systems and networks, lead critical IT projects, and play a vital role in ensuring everything runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently. You’ll also mentor junior team members, contribute to documentation and security compliance, and help shape the IT environment that supports our rapid growth and innovation.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Maintain and optimise our Linux systems, virtualised environments, and cloud infrastructure.
• Lead system health audits, hardware/software deployments, and patch management.
• Support network infrastructure (switches, routers, APs) and ensure robust connectivity.
• Drive and deliver cross-functional IT projects from planning to execution.
• Mentor the team, improve documentation, and ensure high standards of security & compliance (NIST 800-171, PSR).
• Provide launch operations support and be a key part of the action when we send missions to space.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• 7+ years in technical roles with a strong focus on Linux (Ubuntu, Debian).
• Mastery of scripting, automation, and infrastructure as code (e.g., Git, Ansible, Terraform)
• Proven experience in designing, deploying, and administering production-grade Kubernetes clusters
• Deep experience with virtualization & cloud platforms: VMware, Docker, Azure, AWS.
• Knowledge of cloud-native stacks like LAMP, NGINX, Squid, and container orchestration tools.
• Familiarity with security frameworks: NIST 800-171, ISO 27001, and best practices in risk mitigation.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
• A hands-on, get-it-done mindset with a passion for innovation.

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 [e-mail]. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview.

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.