Job Description
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
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 SYSTEMS
This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in Rocket Lab's evolution into an end-to-end space company that delivers launch, spacecraft, and on-orbit operations. The Space Systems Division is shaping Rocket Lab's future with high-performance satellites, enabling innovative for NASA to LEO, the Moon, and Mars and commercial programs including the design and manufacture of 17 high-power telecommunication spacecraft for Globalstar.
Rocket Lab is also growing our spacecraft components business, anchored on the acquisition of Sinclair Interplanetary (reaction wheels and star trackers), SolAero Technologies (solar power and primary structure solutions), Planetary Systems Corporation (launch separation systems), and Advanced Solutions, Inc., provider of flight software, ground software, and digital engineering tools in Denver. Our components businesses are key to vertically integrating enabling capabilities for our customers.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, SOFTWARE PRODUCTS
Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Littleton, CO, the Business Development Manager is responsible for managing all Business Development activities for Software Products, including ground systems, flight software, and digital engineering products. You will support senior leadership and the Business Development organization with deliverables required to grow the company.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Identify new customers for satellite and ground Software Products;
- Present Rocket Lab's capabilities & experience in satellite and ground Software Products to new and potential customers;
- Identify and obtain RFPs from aerospace/satellite prime contractors and other satellite integrators for new and continuing space mission and program opportunities;
- Develop strategies to win programs and work with internal personnel to execute our business plan;
- Lead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new business;
- Establish teaming arrangements with customers or other partners, as required;
- Maintain ongoing relationships with customers to develop future business opportunities;
- Travel as needed for business opportunities.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS (Note: you must meet every qualification in order to be considered):
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or another technical discipline;
- 7+ years of experience working with contractors in the aerospace or defense industry;
- Experience in the aerospace/satellite sector;
- Experience with satellite flight or ground Software Products development, manufacturing, and/or sales.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or in business;
- Specialization in US government Business Development, with deep experience selling to US national security (Space Force, NRO, SDA, etc.) and civil space customers (NASA, NOAA, etc.);
- Demonstrable record of success in Business Development, sales, program management and/or engineering of satellite Software Products;
- Extensive awareness of current/ongoing commercial and government satellite programs;
- Experience and/or deep understanding of engineering design or analysis;
- Experience and knowledge of satellite mission operations;
- Excellent verbal and written communication/presentation skills;
- Personable and able to interface well with customers and present to large groups;
- Experience leading, managing, and growing geographically disperse teams on fast-paced projects;
- Ability to take ownership and action on challenges and to manage tough situations while encouraging colleagues and direct reports to do the same;
- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite products, including MS Project;
- General knowledge of industry specific technical requirements and quality requirements;
- Understanding of a Software Products company and experience working in a software production environment for space applications;
- Knowledge of typical software product customer requirements and associated technical solutions, needs, schedules, and costs;
- Experience using customer relationship management (CRM) software;
- Experience with proposal development, writing, and best practice capture processes, and ability to independently complete cost and technical proposals.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Frequent domestic and international travel is required;
- Availability outside of normal business hours and/or weekends as needed;
- Active security clearance, or ability to obtain one upon hire.
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, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may 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.
WHAT TO EXPECT
We'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 information:
FOR 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 Biow 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.