RF Systems Engineer II - Operations

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing responsive launch services, spacecraft design and production, satellite components, and more, aiming to democratize access to space. Our rockets and satellites facilitate critical missions worldwide, including scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate change initiatives, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations.

The Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites. We are also developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable vehicle for larger constellations. Our Space Systems unit designs and builds an extensive range of satellites and components, including those selected for NASA lunar and Mars missions and parts for the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

We seek an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations to assure mission readiness for Photon Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) systems and associated ground stations. Reporting to the RF Manager, you will independently define TT&C mission plans, generate interface control documents (ICDs), and validate operational readiness through thorough testing. Collaboration with internal teams such as GNC and Flight Software and external ground station operators is essential to smooth mission function.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze mission requirements, trajectories, and link budgets to establish TT&C operational configurations.
• Create TT&C plans for unique missions, coordinating with GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams.
• Develop and update space-to-ground ICDs and manage configuration files for hardware and software components like modems and transceivers.
• Produce statements of work for external vendors and ground station operators.
• Ensure ground software architecture and testing aligns with mission objectives.
• Perform acceptance testing on new ground stations and software solutions, confirming readiness.
• Evaluate integrated system testing results to verify radio and ground infrastructure operation.
• Oversee ground station checkouts and mission prep, selecting stations based on coverage and availability.
• Prepare mission ICDs and coordinate work orders for needed ground stations and settings.
• Analyze Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) test executions to confirm expected system behavior.
• Lead mission readiness presentations and conduct analysis of post-flight data.

Qualifications and Skills

• Degree or diploma in Engineering specializing in Electronics, Communications, or RF, or equivalent experience.
• Strong foundation in RF communication systems and capacity to perform basic RF system analysis.
• Experience with RF system/component integration and testing using equipment such as Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) and spectrum analyzers.
• Familiarity with systems engineering methodologies and documentation (requirements, designs, test plans).
• Excellent communication abilities and adept at forming productive work relationships.
• Capable of working effectively under pressure to meet deadlines.

• Practical experience with radio communication systems is advantageous.
• Understanding of modulation and coding theory.
• Knowledge of system-level RF analysis for spacecraft and ground stations, including link budget assessments.

Work Environment and Expectations

Joining Rocket Lab means committing to a mission that pushes space technology boundaries to benefit life on Earth. The culture values innovation, team collaboration, resilience, and delivering under demanding conditions. We maintain a supportive environment where egos are set aside, and every team member contributes meaningfully.

Important Compliance and Equal Opportunity Notes

For U.S.-based applicants: Compliance with U.S. export and ITAR regulations requires employees to be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or otherwise legally authorized with applicable government permissions.

For New Zealand-based applicants: Background checks, including nationality verification per ITAR rules, are mandatory for employment. Eligibility requires citizenship or permanent residency from specified countries (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries), with restrictions on certain dual citizenships.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer prohibiting discrimination of any form regarding employment terms.