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 – all with the goal of opening access space. The Space Systems team designs and builds spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, and collaborates with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.Senior RF Systems Engineer II / Principal RF Systems Engineer, based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, is responsible for supporting the development of new RF products including components and systems. The role involves developing payload and TT&C subsystems and supporting hands-on RF payload testing. The ideal candidate combines RF engineering, system design, and system test experience and thrives in a fast-paced environment.What you’ll get to doSystem Development: Define and maintain requirements specifications; conduct payload design trades in support of new business proposals; drive the development process and make key design decisions and trades; complete analyses in support of design needs; support test plans and procedures; support the design and development of GSE and production automation; support the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals.Customer/Program Support: Review proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance; scope and drive development activities for new requirements; support engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs; provide technical support to internal/external customers including troubleshooting; maintain awareness of product development and production schedules to satisfy customer/program needs.Note: This position can be filled at a Senior RF Systems Engineer II or a Principal RF Systems Engineer level.QualificationsAs Senior RF Systems Engineer IIBachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or related) and 8+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearityTheoretical and practical 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 (requirements, prototyping, space-worthy products, mission support)Knowledge of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networksU.S. citizenship is required; ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearanceAs Principal RF Systems EngineerBachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or related) and 12+ years of relevant experienceDemonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearityTheoretical and practical 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 (requirements, prototyping, space-worthy products, mission support)Knowledge of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networksU.S. citizenship is required; ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearanceNice to haveExisting TS / SCI clearanceExperience in space-grade system design and in analyses (worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, derating)Experience leading complex engineering programs and related documentationExperience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellitesMentoring and incident management experience; strong communication and project management skillsAdditional requirementsVision: close, distance, peripheral, depth perceptionRegularly required to sit, use a keyboard, and communicate in writing and verballyMust be able to commute to buildingsOccasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noiseWilling to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needsBase salary information: Base Pay Range (CA Only) $170,000—$230,000 USDWhat to expectWe pursue space breakthroughs through hard work, determination, and teamwork. We value delivering results under pressure and meeting tight deadlines while supporting one another.For candidates seeking to work in US offices: ITAR and related export regulations apply. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer and affirmative action employer. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process should contact the recruiter. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-02