Systems Administrator II / Senior Systems Administrator I - TS/SCI Clearance

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

IT SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR - TS/SCI CLEARANCE 

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the IT Systems Administrator will be responsible for the implementation, administration, and operation of classified IT Infrastructure and Cybersecurity technology areas in use at Rocket Lab. The IT Systems Administrator will work closely with the Information Systems Security Manager to ensure the IT systems within the enclave remain in compliance and are protected as required by policy.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Demonstrate your expert knowledge of air-gapped, multi-user system development, deployment, and maintenance in a fast-paced environment with the goal of improving life on Earth.
• Lead upgrades and maintenance with a focus on continuous improvement to provide a reliable and secure infrastructure.
• Support and contribute to the Vulnerability Management and system Compliance at Rocket Lab through the development and implementation of Standards to ensure:
• Compliance with Rocket Lab Cybersecurity Policies
• Compliance with NIST 800-53, CMMC, PSR, and other customer security standards
• Clear and concise reporting on vulnerabilities, incidents, remediation efforts, support levels, etc.
• Comprehensive documentation of network and system architectures
• Work with a team of world class IT, engineering, and business professionals.

This position can be filled as a System Administrator II or Senior System Administrator I

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR II:

• 2+ years of experience in IT and a bachelor's degree OR a high school diploma with equivalent years of experience (6 years of total experience)
• Must possess or be able to obtain DoD 8140 IAT Level II security certification within 4 months of employment (i.e. CCNA-Security, CySA+, GICSP, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of Cybersecurity frameworks / technology: ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.
• Experience with Windows servers in physical and virtualized enterprise level environments.
• Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph required.
• Ability to travel in support of other locations or programs when required.
• Willing to work occasional extended hours and weekends when needed.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR I:

• 5+ years of experience in IT and a bachelor's degree OR a high school diploma with equivalent years of experience (9 years of total experience)
• Must possess or be able to obtain DoD 8140 IAT Level II security certification within 4 months of employment (i.e. CCNA-Security, CySA+, GICSP, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of Cybersecurity frameworks / technology: ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, IPSEC, SSL VPNs, firewalls, etc.
• Experience with Windows servers in physical and virtualized enterprise level environments.
• Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph required.
• Ability to travel in support of other locations or programs when required.
• Willing to work occasional extended hours and weekends when needed.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Must be a self-driven and results-oriented individual capable of effectively working multiple day-to-day tasks concurrently while maintaining the ability to articulate and present intelligent, decisive, and risk-managed security recommendations and decisions in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Specialist qualification in area of expertise: CISM, AWS, Azure, Microsoft, etc.
• Experience with one or more of the following: VMware, Linux, Windows, Configuration Management, Automation, and/or Infrastructure as Code
• One or more of the following: Server and Storage hardware, Backups, HA\DR\BC, Active Directory, Group Policy, Certificate Management (PKI), DNS, or DHCP
• Juniper or Cisco network switching and firewall setup, configuration, and management.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Vision – Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus while reading a computer monitor, etc..  
• Mobility - Must be physically able to commute to buildings. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing. Must be able to lift/carry items weighing up to 35 lbs. unassisted, intermittently stand for periods of time not to exceed two (2) consecutive hours, sit in an office environment for periods of time not to exceed four (4) consecutive hours, walk across uneven surfaces, climb ladders or stairs
• Environmental - Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise (i.e datacenters, production floor, launch facilities). Must be able to properly wear various personal protective equipment (PPE) in areas where dust, chemicals, or industrial noise or other hazards are present. 

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: 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, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)$75,000—$141,000 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 out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.