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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Program Manager II for Advanced RF Systems to lead the technical roadmap and strategic execution of next-generation RF payloads, transponders, SAR, and communications systems. Based at Rocket Lab's Long Beach headquarters, you will own the complete lifecycle from concept through flight qualification and high-rate production, serving as the program authority for multiple active initiatives simultaneously.
You will command the lifecycle of RF systems, building and leading teams that take payloads from blank-sheet concepts through qualification and into production while owning the technical roadmap that grows core capabilities. You'll run multiple concurrent programs, make architectural decisions with Chief Engineers, and navigate complex trade-offs in phased arrays, digital signal processing, and high-rate manufacturing. You'll personally engage with the most program-critical challenges alongside your team.
Key responsibilities include building a high-performing culture where strong people take smart risks and the best ideas win; managing high-stakes subcontracts and strategic supplier partnerships; synchronizing cross-functional teams across hardware, software, and spectrum management; and serving as the primary customer contact for National Security, civil, and commercial partners. You'll also partner with Business Development and Strategy on proposals and technical narratives that define the next generation of RF systems.
Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree in physics, math, science, or related technical discipline; 8+ years of program management experience; demonstrated track record of owning technical programs end-to-end and shipping real hardware; evidence of moving hardware and software from prototype to scalable, flight-ready production; understanding of transponders, SAR, or advanced communication systems; experience identifying and neutralizing technical, schedule, and supply-chain risks; and active TS/SCI security clearance.
Desirable qualifications include proven playbooks for transitioning prototypes to high-rate production; deep experience in National Security Space or commercial telecommunications constellation architectures; success capturing and executing large U.S. Government or major commercial contracts; Master's degree in Engineering; and systems and toolchain fluency.
