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Jobs · Information Technology · California

Senior RF Systems Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab · Long Beach, CA · 3 wk ago
On-siteInformation Technology$142k/yrFull-time

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 scientific exploration, Earth observation, missions to combat climate change, national security, and technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered over 230 satellites to orbit. We are also developing Neutron, a medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars, and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

About the Role

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we are looking for a Senior RF Systems Engineer I/II for a future opening. You will support the development of new RF products, including components and systems, develop payload and TT&C subsystems, and support hands-on RF payload testing. This position can be filled at either a Senior RF Systems Engineer I or II level.

Responsibilities

  • Define and maintain requirements specifications.
  • Conduct payload design trades in support of new business proposals.
  • 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.
  • 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 customer and program needs are satisfied.

Requirements

Senior RF Systems Engineer I

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications, or other engineering degree.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
  • Solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
  • Ability to 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 of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networks.
  • U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Senior RF Systems Engineer II

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications, or other engineering degree.
  • 8+ years of relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
  • Solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
  • Ability to 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 of satellite operations, RF licensing, and ground station networks.
  • U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Existing TS/SCI clearance.
  • 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.
  • Experience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.
  • Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships.
  • Project management experience.

Work Environment

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Benefits

  • Top-tier medical HMO, PPO, and 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.
  • Discounted employee stock purchase program.
  • Subsidized EV charging stations.
  • Onsite gym, food, and drinks.
  • Other discounts.

Pay

Base Pay Range (CA Only): $141,800 USD - $189,000 USD. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

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