RF Engineer II - Licensing

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space technology company in New Zealand seeks an RF Engineer to ensure compliance of launch vehicles and satellites with radio frequency regulations. You will manage licensing applications, maintain RF databases, and liaise with regulatory bodies. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree and 2+ years of RF engineering experience. This role offers a dynamic environment where your contributions will make a significant impact on space exploration.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience as an RF Engineer.
• Solid understanding of RF communications systems with the ability to perform RF analysis.
• Proven ability to manage complex databases and licensing processes.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update RF database of transmitters, receivers, frequencies, and licenses.
• Prepare and manage frequency licensing applications and renewals.
• Stay informed on policy developments and maintain relationships with regulatory authorities.

Skills

RF communications systems

Database management

Technical documentation

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications Systems or Digital Communications

Job description

Overview

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. The goal is to open access space through our rockets, satellites, and missions that support scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change initiatives, national security, and new technology demonstrations. Our Space Systems designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our team designs and develops rockets and spacecraft, spanning design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, documentation, and more.

RF Engineer – Licensing

Take your career to new heights by ensuring Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations comply with local and international radio frequency regulations. Collaborate with the RF Regulatory Lead to develop licensing strategies, support frequency coordination, and navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of space exploration, tackling exciting challenges, and driving innovation. If you’re passionate about RF engineering and problem solving in a fast-paced environment, this is your opportunity to make an impact. Let’s build the future of space together!

In this role, you’ll

• Frequency Database Management: Maintain and update Rocket Lab’s database of transmitters, receivers, frequencies, and licenses.
• Frequency Licensing: Prepare and manage frequency licensing applications, renewals, and coordination activities to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Regulatory Awareness: Stay informed on policy developments and maintain strong relationships with regulatory authorities, including NZ Space Agency, MBIE RSM Licensing, ITU-R, ACMA, FCC, and others.
• Documentation: Create, review, and approve technical documents related to RF systems and licensing.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications Systems or Digital Communications.
• Minimum of 2+ years of proven experience as an RF Engineer.
• Solid understanding of RF communications systems with the ability to perform RF analysis.
• Strong grasp of engineering concepts and industry standards, with the capability to solve RF challenges effectively.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive mindset.
• Proven ability to manage complex databases and licensing processes with precision.

Desirable:

• Experience in frequency licensing and hands-on RF systems work.
• Skilled in liaising with regulatory authorities and stakeholders to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
• Expertise in creating, reviewing, and managing technical documents related to RF systems and licensing.

At Rocket Lab, you’ll be part of a team that’s pushing the boundaries of innovation and space exploration. We offer a dynamic environment where your contributions will directly impact our mission to make space more accessible.

Apply Today!

Take your career to new heights with Rocket Lab. If you’re passionate about RF systems, regulatory compliance, and space technology, we want to hear from you!

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, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations. 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 [e-mail]. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. 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. 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 ITAR. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of eligible countries. For more information on these Regulations, ITAR.