Head of Flight Software

Company: Futureshaper.com
Location: Littleton
Posted on: May 3, 2025

Job Description:

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!SPACE SYSTEMSRocket Lab's Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.HEAD OF FLIGHT SOFTWARERocket Lab is seeking a Head of Flight Software out of our office in Littleton, CO, to lead our flight software engineering teams in Long Beach, CA and Littleton, CO. The Head of Flight Software will shape the flight software product and ecosystem that supports Rocket Lab's space systems and missions. As a senior technical leader, you will drive strategic direction, architecture, product, and execution of flight software systems and operations while managing a high-performing team of engineers in CA and CO. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, chief engineers, program management, related disciplines, and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of flight software.WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Own the team responsible for architecture and development of flight software solutions across Rocket Lab Space Systems.
• Define, build, and maintain a flight software center of excellence.
• Define and execute the strategic roadmap for flight software; ensuring scalability, security, and mission reliability.
• Establish and maintain technical budgets, system requirements, and verification techniques to optimize flight software integration.
• Drive efficiency and quality of work product from multi-disciplinary teams to develop industry leading flight software, simulation software, and test software.
• Partner with program and product management to align software capabilities with mission objectives, company goals, and customer needs.
• Drive innovation in flight software, ensuring adoption of modern technologies, automation, and testing practices.
• Drive key documentation, including interface specifications, CONOPS, and design frameworks.
• Conduct staffing resource analysis and allocation to build and maintain a properly sized organization with skill sets to satisfy program and market demands.
• Participate in proposals and new business capture.YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
  • 12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including embedded systems.
  • 8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs.
  • Ability to identify, develop plans, and solve complex large-scale problems with little oversight.
  • Ability to navigate a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with competing priorities.
  • Expertise in embedded flight software development.
  • Expertise in C++ and Python.
  • Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations.THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
    • PhD or advanced degree in a related technical field.
    • Excellent verbal and written communication.
    • Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including ADCS, EPS, space-ground communications, and C&DH.
    • Experience with fault detection, isolation, and response.
    • Proficiency in STK, GMAT, or similar space mission analysis tools.
    • Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS).
    • Experience with MBSE and process automation.
    • Experience with AI/ML.
    • Experience with operations procedure development, management, and execution.
    • Hands-on experience with satellite operations, subsystem testing, and HITL validation.ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
      • Must be able to work in a technical and operational environment, including travel as required.
      • Ability to collaborate with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive mission success.
      • 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.The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.Base Pay Range (CO Only) $150,000-$225,000 USD.ABOUT ROCKET LABRocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!WHAT 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.
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Keywords: Futureshaper.com, Broomfield , Head of Flight Software, IT / Software / Systems , Littleton, Colorado