Search for Director of Ground Software roles in Long Beach, CA, specifically in aerospace industry, with a focus on secure ground data systems, 12+ years of experience, and remote work options.

Okay, I've searched for Director of Ground Software roles in Long Beach, CA, within the aerospace industry, focusing on secure ground data systems, requiring 12+ years of experience, and with options for remote work. I found 57 positions that match your criteria.

Director of Ground Software

Long Beach, CA

Aerospace

12 years + Experience

Remote

Can you help me to analyze the job description and company culture?

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The role of Director of Ground Software at Rocket Lab is fundamentally about overseeing the development and maintenance of ground software systems that ensure mission reliability and operational efficiency for space missions. This position involves a combination of strategic leadership, technical expertise, and cross-functional collaboration. Key responsibilities include defining a strategic roadmap for ground software, managing technical budgets, leading diverse engineering teams, and aligning software capabilities with mission objectives. This role is particularly critical at Rocket Lab due to the company's focus on reliability in communication between ground and space operations. Challenges likely include navigating the nuances of interdepartmental communication, managing the pressures of frequent launches, and ensuring that security and performance standards are upheld amidst evolving technology demands. Success in this role could be marked by innovation in ground software systems that enhances mission success rates, strengthens data security, and optimizes spacecraft production workflows.

Company Analysis:

Rocket Lab occupies a leading position within the aerospace industry, renowned for its pioneering advancements in space technology and its ability to deliver reliable access to orbit. As a market innovator, the company is engaged in a dynamic sector characterized by rapid technological evolution and high-stakes competition. This translates into an environment that values agility, innovation, and rigorous quality standards, which is essential for someone in the role of Director of Ground Software. The company culture appears to foster collaboration, grit, and a commitment to overcoming substantial challenges, reflecting the demanding nature of space operations. The Director of Ground Software is situated in a pivotal position that impacts the success of multi-disciplinary teams and mission outcomes. This role is not merely about software development; it aligns directly with Rocket Lab's broader goals of advancing space exploration and ensuring mission success. Hence, candidates must appreciate the intersection of technology and mission, embody a proactive approach to challenges, and embrace a culture of teamwork and perseverance.

Mock up some interview questions based on the job description.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

Describe a time when you had to lead a technical team through a tight deadline. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
Can you provide an example of a complex software project you managed? What strategies did you employ to ensure it met all technical requirements?
Tell me about a situation where you had to handle competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. How did you prioritize tasks?
How do you ensure good communication within a multi-disciplinary team?
What approach would you take to develop a strategic roadmap for ground software systems that ensures security and performance?
Can you explain your experience with microservice architecture and how you have implemented it in past projects?
How would you leverage your knowledge of RF/network infrastructure to improve ground software systems?
Imagine you discover a significant security vulnerability in the current ground software. What steps would you take to address it?
Suppose a launch is approaching, and the ground software integration is behind schedule. What would be your plan of action?
What attracted you to Rocket Lab and how do you see yourself contributing to our mission of advancing space exploration?
How does your previous experience align with our goal of delivering reliable space-to-ground communications?
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing ground software systems in aerospace today?
In your opinion, how does innovation in software technology influence space mission success?

Job Details

Overview Company

Director, Ground Software

$175k/y-$250k/y

Rocket Lab

2 days ago

Highlight

OnsiteFull-time12+ yearsDirector

Summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Director, Ground Software to join their team in Long Beach, CA. The role involves leading the development and execution of ground software infrastructure for mission-critical space-to-ground communications and operations.

About the Role

As a Director, Ground Software, you will define and execute the strategic roadmap for ground software systems, own the architecture and development of end-to-end ground software solutions, and lead multi-disciplinary teams to develop advanced simulations and testing methodologies. You will collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership and mission teams to ensure seamless integration of ground systems with flight operations.

About You

Required:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in software engineering, computer science, aerospace, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
12+ years of experience in aerospace software engineering, including ground systems and mission operations.
8+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex software programs.
Expertise in secure ground data systems, with knowledge of RF and network infrastructure.
Expertise in microservice software development.
Expertise in time-series and relational databases.
Expertise in Python and other software languages.
Expertise in Angular and other front-end frameworks.
Track record of successfully delivering mission-critical software for satellite and spacecraft operations.

Preferred:

PhD or advanced degree in a related technical field.
Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including ADCS, EPS, space-ground communications, and C&DH.
Strong background in orbital mechanics, orbit determination, space environment modeling, COLA, and rigid body dynamics.
Proficiency in STK, GMAT, or similar space mission analysis tools.
Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS).
Experience with MBSE and process automation.
Experience with UI and UX development.
Experience with AI/ML.
Experience with operations procedure development, management, and execution.
Hands-on experience with satellite operations, subsystem testing, and HITL validation.
Ability to navigate a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with competing priorities.

Benefits

401(k)
Disability insurance
Company equity
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
Life insurance
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match
Discounted employee stock purchase program
Subsidized EV charging stations
Onsite gym, food and drinks
Childcare concierge
Other discounts

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab builds, launches, and operates rockets and spacecraft for our global customers. Our Electron launch vehicle is the world’s most frequently launched orbital small rocket, our HASTE rocket is progressing America’s hypersonic capabilities on suborbital missions, and our larger Neutron rocket is currently in development. From across the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, Rocket Lab designs and manufactures individual spacecraft components to entire satellites constellations for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

To learn more, visit www.rocketlabusa.com.

Long Beach, CA