Director, Software Engineering (MES)

About Rocket LabRocket 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.DIRECTOR, SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (MES)About The RoleThe Director, Software Engineering (MES) is responsible for architecting, deploying, and supporting a world-class software and infrastructure backbone that powers how Rocket Lab designs and manufactures products across all global facilities. This includes ownership of Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and agent control plane.This role leads a high-performing software engineering team, driving excellence in delivery, efficiency, and innovation. You will collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration of software systems across the manufacturing ecosystem while advancing continuous improvement initiatives.What You’ll Get To DoStrategic LeadershipOwn the architecture and development of MES software solutions across Rocket LabDefine, build, and maintain a Software Center of ExcellenceEstablish and execute a strategic MES roadmap focused on scalability, security, operational efficiency, and mission reliabilityIdentify and implement best practices and emerging technologies to drive operational excellencePartner with internal and external stakeholders to develop and evolve company strategyTrack performance against financial targets, milestones, and external benchmarksProvide strategic insights through regular operational and performance reviewsGuide business teams to ensure disciplined planning and execution of key initiativesFoster alignment and collaboration across functions, disciplines, and global operationsOperational ManagementOversee the design, planning, and optimization of manufacturing software systemsEnsure scalability, reliability, and efficiency of MES operationsLead deployment and support of MES platforms across all Rocket Lab sitesProject ManagementDirect large-scale engineering programs from concept through completionEnsure delivery on time and within budgetPartner with the Project Management Office to prioritize and execute initiativesFinancial ManagementDevelop and manage annual budgets aligned with strategic objectivesDefine and report key financial and operational metricsOptimize global resource allocation for efficient delivery of applications and servicesManage manufacturing engineering budgets, including cost optimization and process improvementsHealth & SafetyEnsure adherence to health and safety policies and proceduresPromote proper PPE usage and safe work practicesEnsure timely reporting of incidents and near missesImplement preventative safety measures across operationsCollaboration & CommunicationPartner with R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, Product Engineering, and Production teamsEnable seamless integration of new products and processes into manufacturing systemsCommunicate effectively with stakeholders, including executive leadershipTeam DevelopmentBuild, mentor, and lead a high-performing software engineering teamFoster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvementDomestic and international travel as requiredOther duties as assignedYou'll Bring These QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field10+ years of experience in manufacturing software engineering8+ years of leadership experience managing teams and complex software programsProven ability to solve large-scale, complex problems with minimal oversightExperience operating in fast-paced, high-stakes environments with competing prioritiesDeep expertise in factory/embedded manufacturing software systemsTechnical ExpertiseProgramming & Infrastructure: Rust, Go, C/C++, Kubernetes (K8s, EKS, K3s), DockerDistributed Systems & Messaging: Kafka, NATS, Linkerd, TraefikDatabases: Redis, PostgreSQL, MSSQL, MySQL, Scylla, Cassandra, CockroachDB, FoundationDB, SQLiteTooling & Frontend: ArgoCD, Tauri, TypeScript, ReactNetworking & ProtocolsTCP/IP, gRPC, Protobuf, FlatBuffersIndustrial protocols: EtherCAT, Profinet, CANBUSAPIs & Security: RESTful services, mTLS, TLSDemonstrated success delivering mission-critical software for factory automationStrong communication and interpersonal skillsWillingness and ability to travel internationallyThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To HaveInventor or author of patents related to factory or manufacturing software systemsLevel and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, 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. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.Base Pay Range (CA Only)$125,000—$290,000 USDWhat To ExpectWe’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 InformationFOR 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.