Senior RF Systems Engineer II / Principal RF Systems ...

OverviewRocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. The goal is to open access to space. Our Space Systems team builds spacecraft, precision payloads, and subsystems including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. The team has enabled more than 1,700 missions working with partners such as NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior RF Systems Engineer II / Principal RF Systems Engineer role supports the development of new RF products including components and systems. You will develop the payload and TT&C subsystems and support hands-on RF payload testing. The successful candidate will have a strong combination of RF engineering, system design, and system test experience, thriving in a fast-paced environment.What you'll get to doSystem DevelopmentDefine and maintain requirements specificationsConduct payload design trades in support of new business proposalsDrive the development process, making key design decisions and tradesComplete analyses in support of design needsSupport the development of test plans and proceduresSupport the design and development of GSE and production automationSupport the development of product documentation including ICDs and User ManualsCustomer/Program SupportReview proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needsScope and drive development activities for new requirementsSupport engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRsProvide technical support to internal/external customers including questions and anomaly troubleshootingMaintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to satisfy customer and program needsThis position can be filled at a Senior RF Systems Engineer II or a Principal RF Systems Engineer level.Qualifications – Senior RF Systems Engineer IIBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or related) and 8+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearityStrong understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and componentsAbility to account for ITU constraints (e.g., PFD limits and DSN protection)End-to-end experience developing and delivering multiple RF systems including requirements assessment, prototyping, space-worthy products, and mission supportKnowledge of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networksU.S. citizenship is required due to program requirementsAbility to obtain a TS / SCI clearanceQualifications – Principal RF Systems EngineerBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or related) and 12+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearityStrong understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and componentsAbility to account for ITU constraints (e.g., PFD limits and DSN protection)End-to-end experience developing and delivering multiple RF systems including requirements assessment, prototyping, space-worthy products, and mission supportKnowledge of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networksU.S. citizenship is required due to program requirementsAbility to obtain a TS / SCI clearanceNice to haveExisting TS / SCI clearanceExperience in space-grade system design and analyses (worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, derating)Experience leading complex engineering programs and developing related documentationExperience designing, integrating, and testing RF systems for launch vehicles or satellitesMentoring and incident management experienceStrong communication and stakeholder management skillsProject management experienceAdditional requirementsVision requirements, computer use, and manual dexterity as described by the jobWilling to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needsNote: Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience.Base salary is part of total rewards including equity and a comprehensive benefits package. Details vary by location and status.Eligibility for benefits may vary. Please consult the recruiter for a comprehensive list of benefits for this role.What to expectWe are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. We value hard work, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and delivering under pressure with tight deadlines.For candidates seeking to work in US offices only: ITAR compliance applies. Rocket Lab requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee status, asylum status, or eligibility to obtain required authorizations.EEO statement: Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.Benefits and payBase Pay Range (CA Only): $170,000 — $230,000 USDAdditional compensation and benefits include a robust package described with eligibility varying by status. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17