PAC Manager II / Senior PAC Manager I

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, 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!

ROCKET LAB IS SEEKING A POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (PAC) & RESEARCH PROJECTS MANAGER

This role is responsible for overseeing PAC operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, fundraising efforts, encouraging and coordinating political involvement across the company, and engaging with political stakeholders to promote the company’s interests. The Manager will report to the VP of Government Operations.

In addition to PAC management, the PAC & Research Projects Manager will support strategic projects within Government Operations with some grant writing responsibilities, including conducting funding research and working with clients and teams to prepare proposals and presentations to secure funding and incentive awards. Through these efforts, the PAC & Research Projects Manager will help position Rocket Lab as a strong and active advocate for policy changes that support the company’s business goals and objectives.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Assist in leading the strategic direction of the Rocket Lab Political Action Committee (Rocket Lab PAC), ensuring alignment with the company’s legislative priorities and business objectives.
• Manage the solicitation of voluntary contributions from eligible employees and stakeholders to support the PAC; develop fundraising campaigns and engagement strategies to grow PAC membership.
• Research and advise on best practices for PAC fundraising campaigns, donor recognition and engagement, giving practices with both federal and state candidates, and impact evaluation metrics.
• Ensure the PAC complies with all federal, state, and local campaign finance laws, including timely filing of reports and maintaining records of contributions and expenditures.
• Develop and maintain an understanding of the policy and regulatory landscape.
• Track and analyze legislative and regulatory policy developments, providing intelligence and insights.
• Research funding and incentive opportunities applicable to the space industry and summarize details, becoming fully knowledgeable on each program assigned.
• Conduct outreach to internal staff and partners on funding opportunities.
• Prepare funding applications (write narratives, complete forms, coordinate application components with internal teams and any partners, prepare supporting documents as needed). Communicate application requirements to teams and coordinate to compile complete, competitive applications by relevant deadlines.

This requisition can be filled as a PAC Manager II or Senior PAC Manager I.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A PAC MANAGER II

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, finance, public affairs, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in political advocacy, PAC management, or government affairs (or 5+ years for P3 level).
• Proven experience working with political stakeholders, managing PACs, and overseeing community engagement programs.
• Strong understanding of PACs, campaign finance laws, and regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge of the political process, public policy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated research and analytical skills to monitor legislative developments.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PAC MANAGER I

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, finance, public affairs, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in political advocacy, PAC management, or government affairs.
• Proven experience working with political stakeholders, managing PACs, and overseeing community engagement programs.
• Strong understanding of PACs, campaign finance laws, and regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge of the political process, public policy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated research and analytical skills to monitor legislative developments.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and compelling narratives.
• Ability to perform site visits as needed (e.g., to take project site photos for applications and understand the needs of the business).
• Time management skills to complete assignments by deadlines while ensuring accuracy, completeness, quality, and thoroughness of results.
• Experience working within the space industry.
• Experience working in the private or non-profit sectors with a government-facing role.
• Familiarity with political and community landscapes in Virginia and Maryland.
• Fundraising campaign and events experience.
• Grant writing or procurement experience, including knowledge of proposal submission processes.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills, with the ability to simultaneously handle multiple initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and an ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Highly resourceful team player with demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to travel and attend evening events.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboards and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.
• Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

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 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 and life insurance.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Discounted employee stock purchase program, 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 (D.C. Only): $94,000—$150,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. 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 thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and always focus 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 ITAR, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected].

Learn more here