RF Systems Engineer I/II - TS/SCI Pipeline

Rocketlab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Top tier medical HMO/PPO

100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan

3 weeks paid vacation

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Discounted employee stock purchase program

Onsite gym

Job summary

Rocket Lab, located in Long Beach, CA, seeks an RF Systems Engineer I/II. This role focuses on supporting the development and testing of communication systems, requiring a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and a strong foundation in RF knowledge.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, engaging in system design, documentation, and customer support while contributing to innovative space technology solutions. A competitive salary is offered.

Qualifications

• Strong fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
• Solid understanding of RF communication systems.
• Experience in RF system delivery and prototyping.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of new communication systems.
• Define and maintain requirements specifications.
• Provide technical support to customers.

Skills

RF knowledge

System design

Communication systems

Technical support skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or RF communications

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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. Whether it’s a single high‑performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER I/II - TS/SCI PIPELINE

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we are looking for an RF Systems Engineer I/II for a future opening who will be responsible for supporting the development and test of new communication systems for various programs. The successful candidate will have a strong combination of RF engineering, system design, and system test experience, and will thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

System Development

• Define and maintain requirements specifications
• Support the development process, ensuring key design decisions and developments are in alignment with the required product capabilities
• 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

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

(Note: This position can be filled at an RF Systems Engineer I or RF Systems Engineer II level.)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER I

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree)
• Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
• A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
• Experience in developing and delivering an RF system including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
• Ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearance

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF SYSTEMS ENGINEER II

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree) and 2+ years of relevant experience
• Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
• A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
• Experience in developing and delivering a RF system including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
• Ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Existing TS / SCI clearance
• Familiarity with space grade system design
• Familiarity working in cross‑functional teams
• Experience designing, integrating, and testing RF communication systems
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Willing to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needs

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.

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, disability 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, 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)

$85,000 — $126,000 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.

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 (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. 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. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. 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 being made to an applicant. 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 the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.