Director, Contracts — Government & Space Programs

Rocket Lab Corp.; Long Beach, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Comprehensive benefits

401(k) with company match

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Director of Contracts to lead and develop a high-performing contracts team onsite at our Long Beach, CA facility. You will negotiate government and commercial agreements, ensure compliance, and guide contract strategy across programs.

You will mentor staff, review proposals, and shape cross-functional processes to optimize performance while maintaining strong government relationships and safeguarding company interests.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of work experience (16+ years total work experience).
• 12+ years of contract administration or contract management experience.
• US Citizenship is required due to program requirements.
• Ability to obtain a DoD Top Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate Government contracts, commercial contracts, non-disclosure agreements, teaming agreements and IP licenses.
• Ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of Government and commercial contracts, including prime contracts, and serve as the key customer interface for any contractual changes, disputes, or requests for equitable adjustment during contract performance.
• Assist in proposal review and preparation in response to Government and commercial solicitations and respond to government and commercial requests for information/clarification during a procurement competition.
• Review, interpret and provide advice to internal clients regarding contract provisions and agreement types.
• Develop and evolve processes for efficient contract management with cross-functional partners.
• Establish and maintain excellent relationships with Government and other customer counterparts.
• Management of a small team of contracts professionals at various levels of professional development.

Skills

Contract management

Leadership

Contract law

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (16+ years total work experience)

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Director of Contracts to lead and develop a high-performing contracts team onsite at our Long Beach, CA facility. You will negotiate government and commercial agreements, ensure compliance, and guide contract strategy across programs.

You will mentor staff, review proposals, and shape cross-functional processes to optimize performance while maintaining strong government relationships and safeguarding company interests.