Senior Technical Program Manager II, Optical Systems

Job overview

The Senior Technical Program Manager II, Optical Systems role is onsite in Tucson, AZ; compensation is not specified. Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division builds spacecraft, payloads, and components for space missions. The role leads EO/IR space missions and ground-based sensor networks, managing program execution across cost, risk, schedule, staffing, and technical performance. It coordinates engineering teams, customers, and internal stakeholders to deliver program milestones and resolve technical and operational issues.

What you'll do

• Manage multiple contracts and program or subsystem performance across cost, risk, schedule, staffing, and technical requirements
• identify and mitigate risks and develop recovery plans
• lead engineering teams through test planning and execution
• communicate program status and plans
• lead customer meetings, reviews, and technical interchange meetings
• mentor junior technical staff
• develop and track Integrated Master Schedules and EVM metrics as required
• support proposal and ECP efforts
• support travel or off-site work as needed.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

senior technical program manager ii

optical systems

tucson az

rocket lab

eo/ir

space missions

ground-based sensor networks

program management

secret clearance

ts/sci eligibility

u.s. citizenship

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Why this role

Requires 8+ years managing technical projects for the U.S. Government, active optical systems expertise, and an active Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibility; U.S. citizenship is required.

About the employer

Rocket Lab Corporation is hiring for this role. Industry: Engineering Services. Sector: 54.