Senior Space Systems Program Lead — TS/SCI

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 135,000 - 201,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Senior Program Manager II (TS/SCI) to own the technical roadmap for a next‑generation mission platform. You will lead multi‑program execution, manage cross‑functional teams across hardware, software, GNC, and mission assurance, and partner with national security customers.

You will oversee program lifecycle from concept through flight qualification and production, drive schedules and budgets, and mentor future leaders in a fast‑paced, high‑ownership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline and 8+ years in aerospace/space.
• 5+ years of technical program management experience.
• Active TS/SCI clearance required.
• Experience leading multiple programs and teams in aerospace.
• Strong ability to manage technical, schedule, and supply-chain risks.

Responsibilities

• Command the Lifecycle: build and lead the team from concept to qualification and production.
• Lead multiple active programs, make architectural calls, and solve complex trade-offs.
• Build the bench and coach upcoming leaders in a high-performing culture.
• Own the program P&L, forecast budgets, and manage Make/Buy decisions.
• Forge the supply chain with strategic partnerships to protect schedule and margin.
• Unblock excellence by synchronizing cross-functional teams across hardware/software/GNC.
• Influence the future as the primary contact for U.S. Government national security customers.

Skills

Aerospace industry experience

Technical program management

TS/SCI clearance

Cross-functional leadership

Risk management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in physics, math, science, or other technical discipline

Job description

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA is seeking a Senior Program Manager II (TS/SCI) to own the technical roadmap for a next‑generation mission platform. You will lead multi‑program execution, manage cross‑functional teams across hardware, software, GNC, and mission assurance, and partner with national security customers.

You will oversee program lifecycle from concept through flight qualification and production, drive schedules and budgets, and mentor future leaders in a fast‑paced, high‑ownership