Principal/Senior Principal Engineer - TS/SCI Clearance
Rocket Lab Corporation is seeking a Principal or Senior Principal Engineer to oversee various satellite programs at their global headquarters in Long Beach, California. This role involves supporting the Space Systems Chief Engineer by delivering critical insights and reports to internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge space missions within a dynamic and innovative environment.
The selected candidate will provide oversight and review of spacecraft system engineering, including requirement derivation, system and subsystem requirement verification techniques, vehicle performance budgets, and test methods and data analysis. Responsibilities also encompass simulation and analysis, technical leadership in future architectures, platforms, and payloads for both internal and external missions, as well as assisting or leading system and subsystem architectural developments for existing missions. Additionally, the role involves supporting program and product management activities.
For the Principal Engineer level, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, an active TS/SCI clearance, and U.S. citizenship due to program requirements. A minimum of 12 years of experience supporting satellite or spacecraft programs is required, along with a comprehensive understanding of spacecraft subsystems, the space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics. Experience with satellite operations is also essential. For the Senior Principal Engineer level, the requirements are similar, with an increased experience threshold of 15 years.
Rocket Lab offers a competitive compensation package, with a base salary range of $180,000 to $250,000 per year. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package, including top-tier medical plans, dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, an onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Joining Rocket Lab means becoming part of a mission-driven team dedicated to unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth. The company fosters a culture of hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and grit. Employees are encouraged to out-think, out-work, and out-pace, with a focus on delivering results and overcoming challenges. This environment offers significant growth opportunities and the chance to contribute to some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally.