Benefits Program Manager
Rocket Lab

Job Info

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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!

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Are you ready to be part of an extraordinary journey beyond our planet? At Rocket Lab we are dedicated to innovation, teamwork and doing the impossible to improve life on earth. Our rockets and spacecraft enable humanity to tackle some of its greatest challenges by delivering vital data and services from space.

Rocket Lab's People & Culture team is responsible for looking after our most valuable asset: our people. Across our global teams, the People & Culture team supports our people and departments across recruitment, onboarding, total rewards, , training and development and much more. We make sure our growing and diverse global team is mission ready, supported, and continuing to grow into a world-class team.

PEOPLE & CULTURE BENEFITS PROGRAM MANAGER

Rocket Lab's People & Culture department is seeking a highly skilled Benefits Program Manager at our Headquarters in Long Beach, CA to play a critical role in developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive benefits programs that attract, retain, and motivate our talented workforce. You will be responsible for ensuring that our benefits offerings are competitive, cost-effective, and aligned with our strategic goals. This role requires a proactive individual with strong analytical and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of benefits administration.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: The role's responsibilities

Program Development and Management

• • Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive benefits programs including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and other employee benefits.
  • Align benefits programs with Rocket Lab's strategic goals and ensure they meet legal requirements and industry standards.
  • Conduct regular market research and benchmarking to ensure the competitiveness of our benefits offerings.
  • Monitor expenditures and make recommendations for cost-saving opportunities without compromising the quality of benefits provided.

Vendor Management

• • Manage relationships with benefits vendors and negotiate contracts to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivery.
  • Evaluate and select vendors for various benefits programs based on company needs and employee preferences.

Employee Communication & Support

• • Develop and execute communication strategies to educate employees about benefit programs, changes, and available resources.
  • Provide support and guidance to employees regarding their benefits, resolving any issues, and addressing their concerns promptly and effectively.

Policy Compliance & Reporting

• • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local benefits regulations and reporting requirements.
  • Prepare and submit necessary reports to regulatory bodies and maintain accurate and up-to-date records of benefits programs.
  • Lead and manage special projects and initiatives to enhance the overall employee experience.
  • Complete other assigned duties as requested.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in benefits administration and program management, preferably in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Strong understanding of benefits regulations and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in vendor management and contract negotiation.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with employees at all levels.
• Proficiency in HRIS and benefits administration software.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 8+ years of overall related experience
• A Master's degree or professional certification (e.g., CEBS, PHR, SPHR) is a plus.
• Workday or other people systems certifications
• Experience in the aerospace or technology sectors

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 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 keyboard 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 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)

$105,000-$140,000 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.

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