People Matter

IT Systems Engineer I

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Software Engineering, IT
Auckland, New Zealand
Posted on Jan 27, 2026

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.

IT

Rocket Lab’s IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem-solvers working in a fast-paced environment but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.

IT SYSTEMS ENGINEER I

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's Auckland, New Zealand location, the IT Systems Engineer is responsible for the implementation, operation, and continuous improvement of computing platforms, networks, and applications required at Rocket Lab. You will support the IT Manager and the IT organization by ensuring a reliable and secure infrastructure through upgrades, maintenance, monitoring, and responding to incidents, problems, and requests. This role also involves providing subject matter expertise, advice, and guidance to deliver and support IT systems efficiently while ensuring compliance with applicable standards, including PSR and NIST 800-171.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Implement, monitor, and maintain IT systems, networks, and applications to ensure reliability, performance, and security.
  • Participate in cross-functional teams to scope, manage, and implement IT projects, including creating project plans and providing regular updates.
  • Produce high-level and detailed design documents, "as-built" documentation, and updates to policies, processes, and procedures.
  • Proactively monitor system health, perform audits, and generate reports to predict growth and recommend improvements.
  • Ensure systems are compliant with applicable standards, including PSR and NIST 800-171, and assist with audits, investigations, and reporting.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 2+ years of experience in a technical role.
  • Ability to lead teams and work independently or as part of a team.
  • Experience with most and in-depth knowledge in at least one of:
    • Windows and/or Linux server (Ubuntu/Debian) enterprise environments.
    • virtualization technologies, public / private cloud.
    • Active Directory and Group Policy.
    • Database and reporting technologies: MS SQL, Power BI, MySQL, Tableau, etc.
    • Modern web-based applications including hosting, troubleshooting, security, etc.
    • Security frameworks and technology: ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.
    • Cloud based technologies: Azure, AWS, O365, etc.
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills to diagnose and resolve complex hardware, software, and connectivity issues.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • 5+ years of experience in a technical role.
  • Advanced problem solving and analytical skills – able to see the big picture, make connections and appropriate decisions.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Positive attitude, adaptability, and ability to work independently or as part of a team in a high-pressure environment.
  • Experience with capacity planning and analysis to predict growth and provide recommendations.
  • Knowledge of information security standards, including PSR and NIST 800-171, and experience with audits and investigations.
  • Ability to mentor and support IT team members to achieve team and company goals.
  • Familiarity with project management tools and frameworks for IT operations.
  • Advanced ability to produce well-written and easy-to-understand documentation.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
  • Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
  • Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.
  • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and protecting operations by keeping information secure.

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.