Mission Manager - Space Systems

MISSION MANAGER

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, Mission Managers work directly with customers from signing of contract through payload integration to launch. This role is focused on supporting Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team with communication and coordination between Rocket Lab and external customers and launch service providers (LSP). The ideal candidate has previous hands-on experience with small spacecraft and is comfortable working with both commercial and government customers as well as frequent domestic and international travel.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Management of multiple Rocket Lab space systems missions, including technical, programmatic, and financial milestones.
• Oversees hands-on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser and launch vehicle integration.
• Responsible for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD) and verification artifacts
• In constant contact with customers and launch service providers to answer questions with technical staff as required.
• Shape spacecraft design and testing requirements for launch vehicle compatibility including mechanical, electrical, and thermal
• Plan launch site activities, develop and submit safety compliance documentation to range or LSP teams, travel to launch sites and execute campaign

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline.
• 5+ years of mission/program management experience and/or an engineering background (stress, fatigue, payloads, vibration, thermal or similar).
• Hardware integration or project management experience on either launch vehicles or spacecraft projects.
• Ability to travel to launch sites, customer sites, and overseas (e.g. Rocket Labs New Zealand facility or launch sites worldwide).

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred
• Experience with SmallSats, or other small space payloads, especially launch integration campaigns.
• ITAR - Previous experience with ITAR & establishment of TAA's.
• Previous Mission Management or Mission Integration experience.
• Experience working with complex mechanical systems with your own hands.
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to perform electrical and mechanical testing.
• Active DoD Secret clearance preferred, but not required.
• Solid interpersonal and organizational skills
• Ability to understand technical constraints relative to payload launch including results from mission specific analysis.
• Solid presentation and technical writing skills.

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.