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Lead / Manager

Business Development Director - Propulsion Products

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Auckland, NZ
On-site
Posted March 17, 2026

Job Description

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. 

Rocket Lab’s Business Development team is at the forefront of connecting government and commercial customers with our industry‑leading launch and space systems. They’re the people who understand customer missions inside out, shape tailored solutions and build the relationships that power our success. With deep industry insight and a drive to deliver, they keep Rocket Lab aligned with the fast-moving space landscape and focused on results.

Based out of Rocket Lab’s Auckland Production Complex, the Business Development Director, Propulsion leads all commercial activities for our propulsion product lines, from electric propulsion systems to propellant tanks. In this role, you’ll shape strategy, grow market presence, and support senior leadership with key deliverables for our Board of Directors and investors.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Drive sales and market expansion for Rocket Lab’s propulsion products, delivering and exceeding Space Systems’ commercial targets across tanks, thrusters, and full propulsion solutions.
  • Lead market and competitive analysis, pricing strategy, and sales forecasting to guide propulsion business development and inform product and services roadmaps.
  • Grow existing accounts and generate new opportunities by presenting Rocket Lab’s propulsion capabilities and building strong customer relationships.
  • Own revenue pipeline forecasting and drive bid/no‑bid decisions, managing end‑to‑end proposal planning and submission.

You may have progressed through an engineering pathway with exposure to bids, proposals, and customer interaction, and are now looking to move fully into business development. You’re ambitious and mission‑driven, and you thrive in a fast‑paced environment, creating new opportunities and helping guide Rocket Lab toward continued market dominance.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

  • Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or business
  • 12+ years’ experience in aerospace/defense industries, working closely with contractors.
  • Strong background in satellite and propulsion products, including development, manufacturing, mission design, and customer requirements.
  • Broad awareness of commercial and government satellite programs, industry technical and quality standards, and manufacturing environments.
  • Skilled in proposal development, writing, capture processes, and independently producing cost and technical proposals.
  • Comfortable with frequent travel to support customer meetings, industry events and commercial opportunities.

This is an incredible opportunity to make your mark on our propulsion product lines and play a key role in shaping the future of space technology. If this sounds like you,  apply now!

 

 

WHAT TO EXPECT<

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