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Rocket Lab is seeking a Program Manager II based in Albuquerque, NM to lead the execution of the program lifecycle for assigned programs within the Space Systems division. This role is part of Rocket Lab's acquisition of SolAero Technologies, which builds spacecraft, payloads, and critical subsystems including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, and separation systems. The Space Systems team has enabled over 1,700 missions for partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.
As Program Manager II, you will serve as the principal point of contact for customers and be accountable for the entire program lifecycle from definition through closeout. You will manage program scope, schedule, and budget (including revenue forecasting, margin, and P&L) in accordance with customer and corporate objectives. Key responsibilities include ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specifications; anticipating customer needs and managing changes; ensuring compliance with program requirements across management, engineering, manufacturing, test, and quality assurance; and providing visibility to customers on all performance aspects.
You will define program tasks and schedules with manufacturing, provide budgets for each task, and interface with functional management to ensure adequate resources are allocated. You are responsible for program P&L and will compile monthly reports with Finance. The role requires proactive risk and issue management, problem-solving for bottlenecks and cross-functional conflicts, monitoring team delivery for internal and external resources, and communicating project progress frequently to staff and executive levels. You will display critical thinking in resolving high-impact, complex, and cross-functional problems while managing multiple concurrent efforts.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, changing, and ambiguous environments, demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills suitable for executive audiences, and exhibits strong conflict resolution, negotiation, and influential capabilities.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Project Management, or related field
- 2+ years of related experience, including project/program management or managerial experience with implementation of large-scale, cross-functional projects in a technology environment
- Program management experience, preferably in the solar and/or wind industries, specifically managing Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts
- Demonstrated achievements in planning, directing, and implementing complex projects on time, within budget, and with desired functionality
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Familiarity with ERP systems and WBS structures
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally
NICE-TO-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience with space-based solar projects and technologies
- Experience with DoD and/or NASA programs
- Experience with a variety of contract types (firm fixed price, cost-plus, etc.)
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Strong conflict resolution, negotiation, and influential skills
NOTE: This position requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or eligible authorization per ITAR regulations for U.S. offices.
