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

OverviewLong Beach, CARocket 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 rockethas 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.Space SystemsAt Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.Senior RF Systems Engineer II / Principal RF Systems EngineerBased at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior RF Systems Engineer II / Principal RF Systems Engineer is responsible for supporting 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, and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic 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 general questions and anomaly troubleshootingMaintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfiedThis position can be filled at a Senior RF Systems Engineer II or a Principal RF Systems Engineer level.QualificationsSenior RF Systems Engineer IIBachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 8+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.Can account for ITU constraints e.g. PFD limits and DSN protection.End to end experience in developing and delivering multiple RF systems including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, producing space worthy products, and mission support.Detailed knowledge in the areas of satellite operations, RF licensing and ground station networks will have been obtained and demonstrated.U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirementsAbility to obtain a TS / SCI clearancePrincipal RF Systems EngineerBachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 12+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.Can account for ITU constraints e.g. PFD limits and DSN protection.End to end experience in developing and delivering multiple RF systems including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, producing space worthy products, and mission support.Detailed knowledge in the areas of satellite operations, RF licensing and ground station networks will have been obtained and demonstrated.U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirementsAbility to obtain a TS / SCI clearanceThese qualifications would be nice to haveExisting TS / SCI clearanceExtensive experience in space grade system designExtensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analysesExtensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentationExperience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellitesDemonstrated expertise in mentoring othersExperience leading incident management and investigationsExperience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult peopleThe ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlinesEffective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationshipsAdditional requirementsSpecific 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 buildingsOccasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.Willing to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needsCompensationBase Pay Range (CA Only)$170,000 - $230,000 USDWhat to expectWe’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.US office eligibilityTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17