Software Engineer II - Data Engineering

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing responsive launch services along with spacecraft design, manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. Our mission is to enhance access to space, supporting critical space missions such as scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate change initiatives, national defense, and innovative technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites into orbit. We are currently developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle designed for larger satellite constellations. Our Space Systems division creates a variety of satellites, payloads, and components, including systems selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and instruments used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Neutron Project

The Neutron team is focused on bringing the new large rocket, Neutron, along with its launch and testing facilities operational. Tasks include designing and testing rocket structures, components, engines, and launching infrastructure across the U.S. Joining this team offers a unique chance to contribute to the first launch of a large rocket.

Role Overview

As a Software Engineer II specializing in Data Engineering based in Auckland, New Zealand, your responsibilities will include developing and deploying pivotal data services essential for engineering, manufacturing, operations, and R&D teams. You'll work on backend services, APIs, data pipelines, and visualization tools that help teams harness and derive insights from complex data.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement APIs, backend services, and tools that facilitate data indexing, retrieval, visualization, and automation within the company.
• Create and maintain data pipelines supporting engineering reports and operational needs.
• Develop new software and tools to improve data management and exploitation.
• Enhance and maintain existing software products with strong emphasis on testing and documentation.
• Engage in code reviews, architectural design, requirements gathering, and backlog management.
• Maintain transparent communication on progress and update work tickets regularly.
• Conduct software demonstrations and collaborate cross-functionally.
• Deploy and manage operational software in production environments.
• Provide training and support for internal users of data engineering tools and services.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma, certificate, or degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• At least five years of professional experience in software engineering.
• Proficient in Python programming.
• Hands-on experience with Git, continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD), and container technologies.
• Familiarity with modern data platforms such as data warehouses, datalakes, and lakehouse architectures.
• Experience in data analysis using tools such as Pandas, NumPy, ETL pipelines, and SQL.
• Skilled in developing RESTful APIs and backend services.
• Knowledge of issue tracking tools like Jira or Redmine.
• Strong communication capabilities and effective collaboration across teams and time zones.
• Ability to evaluate risks, prioritize tasks, plan work effectively, and take ownership of deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Kubernetes and scaling service deployments.
• Familiarity with data visualization frameworks and tools.
• Understanding of data science and numerical analysis methods.
• Exposure to agile software development methodologies.
• Experience in web and user interface development.

Work Environment and Culture

At Rocket Lab, we endeavor to unlock the potential of space to benefit Earth. Our culture demands commitment, innovation, teamwork, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of ambitious goals. We operate with an ego-free attitude, support one another, thrive under pressure, and keep focused on delivering results despite challenges.

Important Compliance Information

For candidates applying to U.S. locations, compliance with U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR) is mandatory. Employees must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or eligible for appropriate authorizations.

For New Zealand office applicants, background and nationality checks are required due to ITAR regulations. Eligibility is restricted to citizens of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, NATO countries, or those without disqualifying dual citizenship.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rocket Lab ensures equal employment opportunity prohibits all types of discrimination across race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected characteristic. This equal opportunity policy applies to every aspect of employment including recruitment, promotion, compensation, and training.