Director, Software Engineering (MES) at Rocketlab

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. DIRECTOR, SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (MES) About the Role The Director, Software Engineering (MES) is responsible for architecting, deploying, and supporting a world-class software and infrastructure backbone that powers how Rocket Lab designs and manufactures products across all global facilities. This includes ownership of Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and agent control plane. This role leads a high-performing software engineering team, driving excellence in delivery, efficiency, and innovation. You will collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration of software systems across the manufacturing ecosystem while advancing continuous improvement initiatives. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO Strategic Leadership • Own the architecture and development of MES software solutions across Rocket Lab • Define, build, and maintain a Software Center of Excellence • Establish and execute a strategic MES roadmap focused on scalability, security, operational efficiency, and mission reliability • Identify and implement best practices and emerging technologies to drive operational excellence • Partner with internal and external stakeholders to develop and evolve company strategy • Track performance against financial targets, milestones, and external benchmarks • Provide strategic insights through regular operational and performance reviews • Guide business teams to ensure disciplined planning and execution of key initiatives • Foster alignment and collaboration across functions, disciplines, and global operations Operational Management • Oversee the design, planning, and optimization of manufacturing software systems • Ensure scalability, reliability, and efficiency of MES operations • Lead deployment and support of MES platforms across all Rocket Lab sites Project Management • Direct large-scale engineering programs from concept through completion • Ensure delivery on time and within budget • Partner with the Project Management Office to prioritize and execute initiatives Financial Management • Develop and manage annual budgets aligned with strategic objectives • Define and report key financial and operational metrics • Optimize global resource allocation for efficient delivery of applications and services • Manage manufacturing engineering budgets, including cost optimization and process improvements Health & Safety • Ensure adherence to health and safety policies and procedures • Promote proper PPE usage and safe work practices • Ensure timely reporting of incidents and near misses • Implement preventative safety measures across operations Collaboration & Communication • Partner with R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, Product Engineering, and Production teams • Enable seamless integration of new products and processes into manufacturing systems • Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including executive leadership Team Development • Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing software engineering team • Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement • Domestic and international travel as required • Other duties as assigned YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field • 10+ years of experience in manufacturing software engineering • 8+ years of leadership experience managing teams and complex software programs • Proven ability to solve large-scale, complex problems with minimal oversight • Experience operating in fast-paced, high-stakes environments with competing priorities • Deep expertise in factory/embedded manufacturing software systems Technical Expertise: • Programming & Infrastructure: Rust, Go, C/C++, Kubernetes (K8s, EKS, K3s), Docker • Distributed Systems & Messaging: Kafka, NATS, Linkerd, Traefik • Databases: Redis, PostgreSQL, MSSQL, MySQL, Scylla, Cassandra, CockroachDB, FoundationDB, SQLite • Tooling & Frontend: ArgoCD, Tauri, TypeScript, React Networking & Protocols: • TCP/IP, gRPC, Protobuf, FlatBuffers • Industrial protocols: EtherCAT, Profinet, CANBUS • APIs & Security: RESTful services, mTLS, TLS • Demonstrated success delivering mission-critical software for factory automation • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Willingness and ability to travel internationally THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: • Inventor or author of patents related to factory or manufacturing software systems Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion. Base Pay Range (CA Only)$125,000—$290,000 USD WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here. 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 [Upgrade to PRO to see contact] 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. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.