Senior Linux Engineer / Kubernetes Engineer

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!

At Rocket Lab, we don’t just build rockets—we build the technology that fuels innovation, launches satellites, and pushes the boundaries of space. Now, we're looking for a Senior Linux Engineer to help us power the systems that power the future.

If you're passionate about Linux systems, thrive in complex environments, and love solving problems that others find impossible, this is your mission.

SENIOR LINUX ENGINEER

As our Senior Linux Engineer, you’ll take charge of designing, deploying, maintaining, and improving the infrastructure that supports Rocket Lab’s operations—from production to launch. You’ll work hands-on with systems and networks, lead critical IT projects, and play a vital role in ensuring everything runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently.

You’ll also mentor junior team members, contribute to documentation and security compliance, and help shape the IT environment that supports our rapid growth and innovation.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO :

• Maintain and optimise our Linux systems, virtualised environments, and cloud infrastructure.
• Lead system health audits, hardware / software deployments, and patch management.
• Support network infrastructure (switches, routers, APs) and ensure robust connectivity.
• Drive and deliver cross-functional IT projects from planning to execution.
• Mentor the team, improve documentation, and ensure high standards of security & compliance (NIST 800-171, PSR).
• Provide launch operations support and be a key part of the action when we send missions to space.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS :

If you're ready to lead the charge in Linux engineering and support world-class space missions - Apply now.

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.

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 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 hereITAR Regulations.

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Rocket Lab is required to comply with US export compliance law including the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).These regulations restrict whom Rocket Lab can share materials with, and whom can receive those materials. This includes hardware and information.Access to these materials is required to undertake roles at Rocket Lab; being unable to meet the export compliance requirements means that you will be ineligible to work for Rocket Lab.Do you consent to Rocket Lab requesting information regarding citizenships, passports and visas in order to proceed with your application?

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