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!
SENIOR MISSION SAFETY ENGINEER
We are looking for a safety engineer who is experienced with interfacing with customers, demonstrating compliance with range safety standards and supervising hazardous operations. You will be a pragmatic team player who takes pride in solving issues and moving things forward.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
The role reports to the Program Director of Launch and provides an end-to-end safety service to our US launch vehicle customers. Tasks associated with this role includes:
- Working with customers and internal Rocket Lab stakeholders to safely integrate spacecraft, support systems and operational ground safety risks with the launch vehicle ground safety program.
- Working with customers and NASA safety office to ensure spacecraft, support systems and operations comply with the intent of NASA Wallops Flight Facility Range Safety Manual GSFC-STD-8009.
- Providing operational safety plans and safety supervision for hazardous operations at launch complexes.
- Working with the Rocket Lab vehicle safety case owner to ensure the safety approvals for the mission specific vehicle configuration is in place.
- Communicating clearly to customers, Virgina Space Authority and RL personnel the hazards associated with respective systems relevant to their potential exposure.
- Working with Rocket Lab occupational health & safety to ensure internal safety requirements relating to hazardous materials storage and lifting equipment are satisfied.
- Provision of ground safety supervision for hazardous launch operations, where appropriate.
As part of the wider Rocket Lab Systems Safety Engineering business function, you should also be flexible in helping across the safety engineering business stream.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or science discipline and 5+ years of experience
- Experience in tailoring of range safety standards such as NASA GSFC-STD-8009, SSCMAN 91-710 or other equivalent standards.
- Experience in creation of operational safety plans and organizing stakeholders to implement the plan.
- Experience in supervising hazardous operations.
- Excellent skills in the Microsoft Office suite, particularly Word and Excel.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Ability to assess safety analysis for completeness.
- Good communicator who is confident in managing regulatory oversight.
- Able to balance multiple customer projects and manage your own deadlines.
- Wider knowledge of the range safety standard and process and the key elements of it other than ground safety.
- Excellent skills in structuring, writing, and maintaining technical documents.
- Knowledge of CFR Part 450 ground safety sections.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Domestic and international travel may be required.
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)
$95,000—$160,600 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.
