Space-Based Radar RF Engineer I

Rocket Lab USA; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity compensation

Stock purchase program

401(k) with company match

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA in Long Beach, CA seeks an RF Engineer I/II – Radar to support the development of space-based radar systems, SAR, and RF subsystems. You will work with experienced radar engineers on design, analysis, and testing.

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics, knowledge of radar concepts, MATLAB/Python, and the ability to obtain clearances. This role offers competitive pay, equity, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related field.
• Foundational knowledge of radar systems including radar equation and basic signal processing concepts.
• Academic or professional exposure to SAR systems, space-based radar, or remote sensing.
• Basic understanding of orbital mechanics including orbit types (LEO, MEO, GEO), ground tracks, and coverage concepts.
• Foundational awareness of spacecraft systems and how subsystems interact with payloads.
• Basic understanding of RF systems including link budgets, amplifiers, and receiver architectures.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for analysis and simulation.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
• Ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Support development of radar system architecture for space-based radar.
• Contribute to radar link budget analysis and performance modeling.
• Perform radar simulations and orbital analysis using MATLAB or Python.
• Assist with radar waveform design and RF component selection for space applications.
• Support test plans and procedure development for radar payload testing.
• Collaborate with RF, digital, systems, and spacecraft engineers.

Skills

Radar knowledge

Signal processing basics

Orbital mechanics awareness

SAR/space-based radar exposure

MATLAB

Python

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Security clearances eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related field

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Rocket Lab USA in Long Beach, CA seeks an RF Engineer I/II – Radar to support the development of space-based radar systems, SAR, and RF subsystems. You will work with experienced radar engineers on design, analysis, and testing.

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics, knowledge of radar concepts, MATLAB/Python, and the ability to obtain clearances. This role offers competitive pay, equity, and comprehensive benefits.