Senior Network Design Engineer I/II Pipeline

About The Role

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 to 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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At 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.

Senior Network Design Engineer I/II

Pipeline
Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we are looking for a Senior Network Design Engineer I/II for a future opening who will be responsible for the space system network architecture design. The Senior Network Design Engineer will provide payload solutions to a variety of space missions including 5G NTN and D2D connectivity. The successful candidate will have had designed and delivered various types of payload solutions, and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Architecture Definition – Drive the design and development of various payload architectures based on proposal and mission planning
• Capability Definitions - Scope and drive development activities for new products. Define use cases and requirements flow down for product development
• Requirements Verification – Collaborate with design and test engineers to ensure all requirements are met
• End to End Execution – Lead and manage payload design for initial concept to in-orbit operations
• Cross Disciplinary Coordination – Act as the primary contact between business development, engineering, manufacturing, vendors, and customers

Qualifications

• As a Senior Network Design Engineer I:
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science; or other engineering discipline
• 5+ years of experience in space system network architecture
• Deep understanding of 5G NTN core integration, backhaul and D2D connectivity design, and/or edge computing for CU/DU functional split
• Demonstrated experience in using scripting language in a relevant context (Python, C#, C++)
• Experience working with a variety of customers including commercial, civil, and military in developing mission solutions
• U.S citizenship required due to program requirements
• As a Senior Network Design Engineer II:
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science; or other engineering discipline
• 8+ years of experience in space system network architecture
• Deep understanding of 5G NTN core integration, backhaul and D2D connectivity design, and/or edge computing for CU/DU functional split
• Demonstrated experience in using scripting language in a relevant context (Python, C#, C++)
• Experience working with a variety of customers including commercial, civil, and military in developing mission solutions
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI
• Familiarity with 5G NTN protocols
• Experience in embedded software development or architecture
• Familiarity with model based systems engineering
• Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Project management experience
• Strong communication skills to articulate solutions to wide audiences

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.