Senior RF Systems Engineer - TS/SCI
Rocket Lab

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!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab's Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER I/II - TS/SCI

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior RF Systems Engineer is responsible for supporting the development of new RF products and systems including Rocket Lab's radio product line and TT&C systems for various programs. You will develop the TT&C subsystem as well as support 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 DO:

System Development

• Define and maintain requirements specifications.
• Drive the development process, making key design decisions and trades.
• Complete analyses in support of design needs.
• Support the development of 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 based on existing unit capabilities vs. development needs.
• 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 general questions and anomaly troubleshooting.
• Maintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior RF Systems Engineer I or Senior RF Systems Engineer II level)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER I:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
• A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
• Experience in developing and delivering a RF system including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
• Active TS / SCI clearance.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER II:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 8+ years of relevant experience.
• Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
• A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
• Experience in developing and delivering a RF system including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
• Active TS / SCI clearance.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Extensive experience in space grade system design.
• Extensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses.
• Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation.
• Experience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites.
• Demonstrated expertise in mentoring others.
• Experience leading incident management and investigations.
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships.
• Project management experience.

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 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.
• Willing to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needs.

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-$205,000 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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