Mission Manager: Space Payload & Launch Lead

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 117,000 - 196,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity grant

Employee stock purchase program

Comprehensive benefits

Company match 401(k)

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Mission Manager to oversee customer missions from contract signing through payload integration to launch, supporting both domestic and international travel. The role requires prior mission management or technical program management experience and an active DoD Secret Clearance.

You will lead payload integration, drive milestone reviews, and support business development with technical input, while coordinating across multiple teams and sites in North America.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field.
• 5+ years of mission management or technical program management experience.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance.
• Hardware integration or PM experience on launch vehicles or spacecraft.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple Rocket Lab customer missions across technical, programmatic, and financial milestones.
• Oversee payload integration activities, including fit checks and vehicle interfaces.
• Lead milestone reviews with customers, e.g., design or test readiness reviews.
• Assist business development with proposal input, lead generation, and technical reviews.

Skills

Mission management

Customer liaison

Travel readiness

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Mission Manager to oversee customer missions from contract signing through payload integration to launch, supporting both domestic and international travel. The role requires prior mission management or technical program management experience and an active DoD Secret Clearance.

You will lead payload integration, drive milestone reviews, and support business development with technical input, while coordinating across multiple teams and sites in North America.