Software Technical Project Manager

Rocket Lab USA; Littleton (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company stock options

Medical benefits

Paid vacation

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA is looking for a driven Software Technical Project Manager in Littleton, Colorado. This role involves leading a team of engineers to manage software development for flagship programs related to space communications and data security.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience managing software projects related to embedded systems, a strong grasp of agile methodologies, and the ability to engage effectively with subcontractors. Compensation ranges from $120,000 to $170,000 per year, with additional benefits like stock options and medical insurance.

Qualifications

• 8+ years industry experience in software engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 3+ years project management experience.
• Ability to obtain SECRET clearance.

Responsibilities

• Manage software development and integration of communication devices on spacecraft.
• Interface directly with subcontractors and internal teams.
• Lead agile ceremonies for software teams.

Skills

Software development lifecycle

Project management

Network software

Agile methodologies

Jira

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

Software Technical Project Manager

Location: Littleton, CO

Rocket Lab is looking for a driven Software Technical Project Manager to work with a team of engineers on flagship efforts to deliver on program milestones related to Space-to-Space Communications, Space-to-Ground Communications, Payload Software, and Data Security. The successful candidate will have prior experience managing software development efforts for embedded systems and government programs. Knowledge of secure network systems is a must have, with RF and spacecraft experience being an additional benefit. This role reports to the Senior Manager, Business Operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage the software development and integration of routers, radios, and laser communication devices on a constellation of spacecraft.
• Manage suppliers and subcontractors to successfully develop and test an integrated system.
• Interface directly with subcontractors, consultants, and internal engineering teams to develop and maintain roadmaps, product development plans, provide progress updates, and meet project delivery milestones.
• Design and develop simulation and test approaches for constellation networking.
• Define KPIs for contractors and internal development teams.
• Set the battle rhythm for subcontractors to provide feature drops to the overall program.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans with senior leadership.
• Plan major integration points and testing between teams.
• Lead software teams agile ceremonies including Increment Planning, Stakeholder reviews, and retrospectives / backlog refinement.
• Drive best practices for collecting feedback and implementing improvements.
• Develop and maintain software development standards and procedures to ensure that all software deliverables are of the highest quality and meet customer requirements.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.
• Bachelor's degree & 8+ years industry experience in computer science, software engineering, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience with project management and interfacing with external contractors.
• Thorough understanding of network software.
• Thorough understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile methodologies including Scaled Agile (SAFe), etc.
• Experience using Jira for software development management.
• Experience with systems engineering methods including systems trades, requirements management, performance characterization, and interface management.
• Ability to obtain SECRET clearance and maintain one.

Nice to Have

• Active SECRET or TS/SCI clearance.
• Master's degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering, or other technical discipline.
• An ownership outlook with the desire to build lasting systems and a willingness to identify gaps, develop plans to address them, and engage stakeholders to fill them.
• Experience.
• Experience with SDANEBULA architectures.
• Experience with Cyber Security controls.
• Experience with encryption.
• Experience leading a team utilizing agile methodologies.
• Project management qualifications such as PMP, APMP, etc.
• Ability to identify and address problems with a proactive and systemic approach.
• Proficiency with project and engineering management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, etc.
• Experience with Docker.
• Experience with Kubernetes.
• Experience with DevSecOps.
• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships.

Working Conditions

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Compensation

The expected salary range for the position is $120,000 – $170,000 USD. Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

EEO Statement

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. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.