RF Systems Engineer II - Operations
Rocket Lab
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket 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 rocket has 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.
Are you ready to take your career to the next level in the exciting world of space technology? Join our team as an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations and play a pivotal role in ensuring mission operational readiness for Photon TT&C systems and ground stations. If you're passionate about RF communications, systems engineering, and working on cutting-edge technology, this is your opportunity to make an impact.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations, you will work independently under the guidance of the RF Manager to define mission TT&C plans, prepare interface control documents (ICDs), and verify the operational readiness of TT&C systems through rigorous testing. You’ll collaborate with internal teams such as GNC and Flight Software, as well as external ground station operators, to ensure seamless mission execution.
This role is critical to the success of our missions, requiring technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to ensure our systems are ready to perform in the most demanding environments.
IN THIS ROLE YOU’LL:
- Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analysis to define operational TT&C configurations.
- Develop TT&C plans for non-standard missions and engage with cross-functional teams including GNC, Flight Software, and Operations.
- Interface Control Documents (ICDs) & Configurations:
- Prepare and maintain space-to-ground ICDs.
- Manage configuration files for hardware and software, including modems and transceivers.
- Develop statements of work for external ground station operators and suppliers.
- Ensure ground software architecture, development, and testing meet mission requirements.
- Conduct acceptance testing of new ground stations and software solutions to verify operational readiness.
- Review integrated systems testing results to ensure correct operation of radio systems and ground infrastructure.
- Oversee ground station checkouts and mission preparation activities.
- Allocate and select ground stations based on availability and coverage.
- Prepare mission ICDs and arrange work orders for required ground stations and configurations.
- Analyze HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) runs to verify expected behavior.
- Present mission readiness reviews and post-flight data analysis.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Engineering (Electronics/Communications/RF) or equivalent qualification.
- Solid understanding of RF communications system fundamentals and ability to perform basic RF analysis.
- Experience integrating and testing RF systems and components, including operating RF test equipment like VNAs and spectrum analyzers.
- Familiarity with systems engineering processes and documentation (e.g., requirements specifications, design documents, test plans).
- Strong communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
Desirable Skills:
- Hands-on experience with radio communications systems.
- General understanding of modulation and coding techniques.
- Knowledge of system-level RF analysis for ground stations and spacecraft, including link budget analysis.
If you’re passionate about RF systems engineering and want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of space technology, we want to hear from you!
Apply now to join us as an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations and take your career to new heights.
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.
