Senior Software Engineer - Neutron Configuration Management

Senior Software Engineer - Neutron Configuration Management

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.

What You'll Get To Do

Neutron is Rocket Lab's new, medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle currently under development. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Software Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be responsible for architecting, implementing, and maintaining software solutions that manage and control configuration data for the Neutron launch vehicle program. Configuration data describes the design, performance and characteristics of the launch vehicle and supporting systems. It ties the mission to the systems that perform the mission. It ensures engineers, analysts and operators are using consistent, coherent information before, during and after the flight. Your products will be crucial, ensuring the completeness and correctness of configuration data across teams including Design, Analysis, Vehicle Integration, Software, Operations, and Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC).

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with Engineering teams to gather and understand configuration data requirements
• Design, develop, and maintain software solutions for configuration data management, including automated processes to manage data updates and deployment
• Own, maintain, and drive the successful delivery of configuration tooling projects through direct project management and/or collaboration with workstream leaders
• Understand and leverage Shared Service team capabilities and existing products
• Review and/or contribute directly to codebases as needed
• Perform audits and quality checks to ensure compliance with internal and external standards
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to configuration data management
• Provide documentation and training on your products and processes to other team members

You'll Bring These Qualifications

• Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, or related field
• Minimum of 5 years relevant professional experience
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++
• Experience with tools like Git, TeamCity, or Ansible
• Familiar with a Linux based development environment
• Strong understanding of database design and management
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have

• A working knowledge of physical concepts related to aerospace systems
• Proven experience in configuration data management
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, etc.)
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines
• Experience with Bazel
• Experience with Docker and Kubernetes
• Experience with manufacturing/production environments