Senior RF Engineer I/II Pipeline
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, 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 DESIGN ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE
We are currently seeking
Senior RF Design Engineers
for future opportunities based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. Senior RF Design Engineers are responsible for supporting the development of new RF products including Rocket Lab’s radio product line alongside the radio development team. Senior RF Design Engineers will design and simulate RF products including the Frontier-Lite Radio. The successful candidate will have a strong combination of RF engineering, system design, and board/circuit design skills and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
Product Development
Define and maintain requirements specifications
Support the development process, ensuring key design decisions and developments are in alignment with the required product capabilities
Design and prototype the RF product including component selection and PCB layout / fabrication / packaging
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
Liaise with Test Engineers and Manufacturing Engineers to drive New Product Introduction
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
This requisition can be filled at a Senior RF Engineer I or a Senior RF Engineer II level.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR RF ENGINEER I:
Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 5+ years of relevant experience
Fundamental RF knowledge including cascaded device analysis, link budget analysis, and HFSS
Experience in developing and delivering a RF product including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR RF ENGINEER II:
Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 8+ years of relevant experience
Fundamental RF knowledge including cascaded device analysis, link budget analysis, and HFSS
Experience in developing and delivering a RF product including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Extensive experience in space grade board design including parts selection and performance simulation
Extensive experience in circuit 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 people management.
Experience leading incident management and investigations.
Experience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
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, 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)
$130,000 - $190,000 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.
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. , lawful U.S. permanent (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.
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 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.
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