Director of People & Culture

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!

DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE & CULTURE

Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Director of People & Culture will facilitate the company’s global human resources efforts. The chosen candidate will create, influence, and guide the execution of strategic programs, projects and services to enhance Rocket Lab’s culture and brand as an employer of choice. As a senior strategic business partner, the Director of People & Culture will also be responsible for working closely with the global People & Culture teams and executive leadership on all human resource services including policy development, compliance, employee relations, learning and development, performance management, and talent strategies. With over 1,800+ employees globally, this growing business is looking for a dynamic leader with exceptional tactical and strategic skills.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead and guide the efforts of the HR team while supporting a customer-centric approach to internal stakeholders.
• Foster a climate of strong accountability, responsibility, partnership, ownership, and results orientation.
• Develop, improve, and implement HR strategies aligned with the company’s objectives and goals.
• Provide strategic leadership and guidance on all aspects of HR including, employee engagement, performance management, employee relations, and compliance.
• Provide ongoing assessment of organizational effectiveness and create strategies for alignment of resources and workforce planning.
• Foster a positive and inclusive company culture.
• Lead and mentor a team of HR professionals, promoting their professional development and growth.
• Guide best practices in the use of HR systems, policies, procedures, and compliance and streamlines processes for operational excellence.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, or human resources management and 10+ years of professional human resources experience.
• Experience in high growth environments, organizational development, and employee engagement.
• Experience in broad fields of human resources including organization design, restructuring and change management, employee engagement and relations, talent and organization development, employee relations, compliance, performance management, compensation, and benefits.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with senior line executives and clients to successfully develop and implement plans, programs, and policies.
• Excellent facilitator who is experienced in resolving conflicts.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and implementing HR strategies that align with organizational goals.
• Extensive knowledge of HR best practices, employment laws, and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics and influence decision-making processes.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s degree in business administration, human resources management or related area.
• Juris doctor degree and employment law expertise
• Ability to balance between strategic thinking and tactical implementation.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a team.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Human resources certification or professional human resources affiliations
• Experience in manufacturing, government contracting, or start-up environments.
• Experience using Greenhouse and Workday.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California 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, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may 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 (CA Only)

$150,000 – $210,000 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 Biow at [redacted]. 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.