IT Systems Engineer I

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design, manufacturing, satellite payloads, components, and more to expand space accessibility. We support vital scientific exploration, Earth observation missions, climate change initiatives, national security, and technological demonstrations worldwide. Our Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites, while we develop Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for larger constellations. Our Space Systems division designs and manufactures satellites and components, with spacecraft selected for NASA’s missions to the Moon and Mars, as well as parts used in the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

The IT Systems Engineer I will be stationed onsite at our Auckland Production Complex in Mt. Wellington. Working in a dynamic, team-driven manufacturing setting, you will manage the implementation, administration, and operation of various platforms and operating systems including VMware, Kubernetes, Linux, and Windows Server and Client.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expertise and guidance to support and deliver IT systems via efficient cloud infrastructure management and project delivery.
• Perform system upgrades, maintenance, and continuous improvement efforts to ensure infrastructure reliability and security.
• Lead infrastructure project planning and deployment activities.
• Collaborate with IT, engineering, and business experts in a high-caliber team environment.
• Develop and maintain automated processes for software delivery, operating system deployment, and configuration management through enterprise SCCM.
• Manage operating system upgrades and migrations smoothly by applying necessary changes.
• Troubleshoot user software and hardware issues in alignment with project policies.
• Conduct site-specific risk mitigation during change and configuration management to ensure seamless adoption of new system software delivery and automation tools.
• Create, test, and distribute operating systems, application packages, scripts, and batch programs for software delivery and configuration management across the computing platform.

Required Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience coupled with a bachelor’s degree, or six or more years of relevant experience with a high school diploma or GED.
• Strong proficiency in Windows Server Administration including Active Directory, Group Policy, Certificate Management (PKI), DNS, and DHCP.
• Familiarity with AWS, Office 365, and Azure enterprise environments.
• Hands-on experience with Kubernetes, VMware, Linux, Configuration Management, Automation, or Infrastructure as Code technologies.
• Knowledge of server/storage hardware, backup systems, NetApp, Pure Storage, hyperconverged infrastructure, and VOIP phone systems.

Preferred Skills and Certifications

• Specialized certifications in areas like AWS, Azure, or Microsoft technologies.
• Experience with Juniper or Cisco network switching, IPSec, SSL VPNs, and firewalls.
• Understanding of security frameworks such as ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, CMMC, and CUI.
• Competence in Fortinet firewall configuration and management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication capabilities.

Working Conditions

This position may involve extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer use, and occasional exposure to moderate noises, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab is committed to diversity and equality in employment, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. Employment offers may include background and nationality checks due to U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be eligible to access ITAR-controlled equipment and data, potentially limited to citizens of specific countries or those with eligible status. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the application and interview process.