Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Senior GNC Software Engineer is responsible, alongside the Director of GNC and GNC Launch Leads, for the design and implementation of GNC Software Systems involved in flight and ground operations for Electron, Neutron and their production.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

As a Senior GNC Software Engineer at Rocket Lab, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the software systems that control our cutting-edge rockets. You will be involved in the full lifecycle of software development, from initial design through to implementation and validation.

Develop and validate 6DOF simulators to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our flight systems
Design, implement, and verify flight software, including core GNC algorithms and auto-sequences, to ensure optimal performance during missions
Perform unit tests and software integration tests to guarantee the highest levels of software quality
Process data and automate the generation of detailed reports to facilitate informed decision-making
Create new software products, review and approve software requirements, and conduct comprehensive Monte-Carlo simulations and pre-flight, launch-day, and post-flight analyses
Model and predict vehicle parameters and manage configuration control to maintain system integrity
Review software merge requests to ensure all new GNC Software meets our rigorous internal standards
Identify and implement process improvements to drive efficiency within the GNC team
Participate in launch activities and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) operations to ensure mission success

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor, Masters or Ph.D. in Electronics, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering
5+ years’ experience developing in Python or MATLAB
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
5+ years’ experience developing in C/C++ including some embedded or high reliability development
Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with Git version control
Accustomed to working in a continuous integration environment
Skilled with Simulink
Familiar with Agile/Scrum based workflows

If the above sounds like you apply now!

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.

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.