Senior Tech Program Manager – EO/IR Space Systems

Rocket Lab Corporation; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager II to lead EO/IR space missions and sensor networks. You will manage complex space-related programs, coordinating electronics, software, and ground systems across multidisciplinary teams.

The role requires 8+ years of technical program management for US Government customers, active TS/SCI clearance, and US citizenship. You will liaise with customers, manage schedules, and mentor engineers to deliver

Qualifications

• 8+ years managing technical programs for US Government customers.
• Active TS/SCI clearance; U.S. citizenship required.
• Experience with EO payloads, optics, electronics, software, and/or remote sensing in space domains.
• Proven ability to lead teams to milestones and manage complex programs and contracts.
• Experience developing IMS and tracking EVM metrics for programs.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple contracts, ensuring cost, schedule, staffing, and technical performance.
• Identify and mitigate risks; develop contingency and recovery plans.
• Lead engineers in planning test events and resolving issues.
• Communicate program status to customers and stakeholders with clarity.
• Mentor junior staff and grow project management capabilities.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Communication

Risk management

Team mentoring

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, technology, or technical discipline

Tools

MBSE (Cameo Systems Modeler)

Earned Value Management tooling

Job description

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager II to lead EO/IR space missions and sensor networks. You will manage complex space-related programs, coordinating electronics, software, and ground systems across multidisciplinary teams.

The role requires 8+ years of technical program management for US Government customers, active TS/SCI clearance, and US citizenship. You will liaise with customers, manage schedules, and mentor engineers to deliver