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Employee Relations and Compliance Manager full_time

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!

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Rocket Lab’s People & Culture team is responsible for looking after our most valuable asset: our people. Across our global teams, the People & Culture team supports our people and departments across recruitment, new staff orientation, compensation, learning and development. They make sure our growing and diverse global team is supported and capable of delivering our projects and customer’s missions, and they’re responsible for supporting their development, nurturing their skills and talent, and retaining the world-class people already on our team.

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS AND COMPLIANCE MANAGER

Located onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Employee Relations and Compliance Manager will be leading a team of hard-working and mission-focused human resources professionals in supporting Rocket Lab’s ongoing commitment to a positive workplace environment and regulatory compliance. To be successful in this role, you must be detail-oriented, proactive in ensuring deadlines and targets are consistently met, and possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Develop and implement employee relations strategies, policies, and programs that promoted a positive work culture.
  • Provide expert advice, guidance, and support to managers, HR business partners and employees on resolving workplace issues and conflicts.
  • Conduct and oversee thorough and impartial investigations into complaints of workplace misconduct, including, but not limited to harassment, discrimination, and policy violations.
  • Collaborate with P&C team members and leadership to address employee performance issues, including coaching, counseling, and disciplinary actions, in a consistent, cohesive manner.
  • Monitor and analyze employee relations trends and metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement proactive measures.
  • Research and monitor local, state, and federal labor and employment laws and regulations, ensuring Company compliance and advising on legal and regulatory requirements affecting employee relations.
  • Develop and deliver training programs for managers and employees on topics such as conflict resolution, effective communication, workplace ethics, and legal and compliance issues.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding workplace concerns, providing guidance and support as needed.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of employee recognition and engagement initiatives.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of employee relations cases and issues.
  • Partner with P&C team members on various projects and initiatives to enhance overall employee experience and organizational effectiveness
  • Evaluate internal operational and procedural compliance and suggest improvements, as needed. 
  • Review and evaluate company procedures and reports to identify hidden risks or common issues.
  • Perform periodic audits on company procedures and processes.
  • Develop and execute new compliance policies and procedures as required.
  • Apply for compliance certification and regulatory approval and filings.
  • Develop and maintain a compliance recordkeeping system.
  • Maintain communication with compliance regulators.
  • Work with Legal Counsel to review and update policy changes, as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Minimum of 8 years of experience in employee relations, labor relations or human resources management and a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of employment laws, labor regulations, and HR best practices.
  • Proficiency in compliance management.
  • Proven experience handling conflict resolution and conducting thorough and objective investigations, providing clear and actionable recommendations.
  • Exceptional ability to formulate written compliance policies, procedures and related documentation and to deliver training on such topics. 
  • Consistent track record of managing and completing compliance-related reporting and audits on a timely basis.
  • Travel up to 10% may be required, domestic and international, to support all Rocket Lab locations.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Master’s degree in Human Resources or related field.
  • PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal, with the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with employees and management teams. 
  • Experience working in an aerospace, technology, or manufacturing environment.
  • Experience managing international employee relations and compliance functions for a global Company;
  • Proficiency in HRIS and compliance tracking systems.

ADA 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. 

 

Level 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, childcare concierge, 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)
$100,000—$150,000 USD

 

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 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.

 

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