Subcontracts Manager

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more — all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket, satellite and optical payload programs. They set up assembly kits that enable our technicians to build our products, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard.

They are the chain that links our teams together and are critical to our success.

Based onsite at Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ the Subcontracts Manager will focus on optical payload programs. In this role, you will perform a variety of supply chain functions, including supplier development, requirement solicitations, contract award, post‑award management, and close‑out activities. You will also have the opportunity to work in an energetic, collaborative environment that supports one of the fastest growing companies in the satellite industry.

You will be a catalyst for effective subcontract execution in alignment with program objectives. We value diverse skills and experience. Your qualifications will add tremendous value to our team. If you’re passionate about what you could accomplish in this role, we’d love to hear from you.

• Owner of all Supply Chain Management aspects including cost, timing, and strategy for optical payload subcomponents. This means being responsible for issuing Request for Quotations, negotiating contract proposals, and managing the execution of any supplier agreement
• Develop a subcontracting strategy that ensures program demands are met. Manage supplier execution and ensure on‑cost, on‑quality, and on‑time delivery of critical satellite components
• Monitor engineering design activity and guide supplier selection and performance based on requirements, specifications, and capabilities
• Address all areas of commodity management including market conditions, technology roadmaps, cost modeling, and sourcing strategies
• Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships. Conduct supplier performance management including scorecards, quarterly business reviews and dispute resolution
• Develop and execute mitigation plans to address supplier risks and issues
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers on a first principles basis to achieve best in class cost structures
• Manage internal communications on supply, cost, and quality with key stakeholders and leadership.
• Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company‑wide goals

• 5+ years of experience in supply chain management or commodity management and a Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience (9+ years of work experience)
• Excellent negotiator with experience in written contractual vehicles (Cost Plus, Firm…