Senior Software Engineer II - Digital Engineering

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.  SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER II - DIGITAL ENGINEERING Are you passionate about advancing aerospace technology through cutting-edge software solutions? We're looking for a driven Senior Software Engineer II to join our Digital Engineering team, based out of our Littleton, CO site. You will play a pivotal role in developing next-generation simulation and modeling tools that support aerospace systems, including flight software and ground software capabilities. This role offers the opportunity to work on innovative projects that enhance aerospace systems through scalable architectures, intuitive user interfaces, and robust software solutions. You’ll be part of a collaborative team, contributing to all phases of software development—from requirements definition and design to coding, testing, and deployment. Our stack includes .NET, Angular, and relational databases, with a focus on scalable architectures and RESTful APIs. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Design, develop, and maintain simulation and modeling tools that support aerospace systems, including flight and ground software capabilities Design and develop mission level wargaming tools encompassing space, air, and ground domains Design products for analyzing laser communication constellation networks Develop application software based on web technologies that runs across multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux Apply UI/UX best practices to create streamlined, intuitive user interfaces for simulation and configuration tools Collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze requirements, define system architectures, and deliver high-quality solutions Participate in design reviews (e.g., PDR, CDR) and contribute to the refinement of system requirements and technical specifications Conduct code reviews to ensure adherence to company coding standards and best practices Optimize software performance and scalability for large-scale simulations and data processing YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline 8+ years of experience in software development, with a focus on simulation, modeling, or aerospace systems Proficiency in C#/.NET and Angular (or similar frontend frameworks like React or Vue) Experience with TypeScript/JavaScript and building RESTful APIs Strong understanding of relational databases (e.g., MySQL, SQL Server, SQLite) Solid grasp of object-oriented programming principles and design patterns U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field Experience with Docker/Kubernetes for containerization and orchestration Knowledge of network programming (e.g., Sockets, WebSockets) for real-time data exchange Passion for rapid prototyping and software integration leveraging AI tools Passion for UI/UX design Experience with space mission analysis tools such as STK, or similar Experience with modeling of physical systems Familiarity with Git and modern version control workflows. Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments and contributing to iterative development cycles Advanced knowledge of Angular NgRx or other state management libraries Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex systems A team-oriented mindset with excellent communication skills and a positive attitude This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.  Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role.  You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and  can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation , holidays , and sick leave ; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.    Base Pay Range (CO Only) $130,000 — $170,000 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