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Overview
Mid-Level

Head of Ground Software

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Compensation

$140,000 - $230,000/year

Littleton, CO
Hybrid
Posted February 28, 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. 

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. 

HEAD OF GROUND SOFTWARE 

Rocket Lab is seeking a Head of Ground Software to lead the development and execution of our ground software infrastructure, supporting mission-critical space-to-ground communications, ground data infrastructure, mission operations, and spacecraft production. This role is based at our site in Littleton, CO, and is pivotal in shaping the software product and ecosystem that supports Rocket Lab’s space systems and missions. 

As a senior technical leader, you will drive strategic direction, architecture, product, and execution of ground software systems and operations while managing a high-performing team of engineers in CA and CO. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, program management, related disciplines, and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of ground systems with flight operations. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

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