RF Systems Engineer I - Operations

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 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.

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About the Role

As an RF Systems Engineer I – Operations, you will play a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of launch vehicle TT&C (Telemetry, Tracking & Command) systems and their supporting ground stations.

Working closely with RF, GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams, you will help define mission TT&C strategies, manage space-to-ground interfaces, and verify that communications systems are fully prepared to support mission success.

This is a hands-on, mission-focused role where your work directly contributes to launch readiness and post-flight analysis.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Mission Planning & TT&C Strategy

• Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analyses to define optimal operational TT&C configurations
• Support development of TT&C plans for non-standard missions
• Collaborate cross-functionally with GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams to ensure seamless integration

Interface Control & Configuration Management

• Support development and maintenance of space-to-ground Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
• Establish and manage configuration files for key RF hardware and software (modems, transceivers, etc.)
• Ensure accurate alignment between mission requirements and operational configurations

Data Processing & Analysis

• Develop and maintain Python or MATLAB scripts to process and present telemetry data clearly and effectively
• Analyse HITL (Hardware-In-The-Loop) and operational data
• Identify anomalies, raise issues, and track resolution through to closure

Mission Execution & Readiness

• Review integrated systems testing results to verify correct radio system and ground infrastructure operation
• Support ground station checkout and mission preparation activities
• Allocate ground stations based on availability and coverage requirements
• Prepare mission ICDs and coordinate required work orders
• Contribute to vehicle, range, and launch readiness reviews
• Conduct post-flight data analysis and present findings
• Continuously improve processes and procedures

What Success Looks Like

You will:

• Take ownership of your systems and deliver results
• Escalate risk appropriately and apply sound engineering judgement
• Communicate clearly and proactively across teams
• Create high-quality technical documentation and presentations
• Contribute positively to a collaborative, mission-driven environment

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Engineering (Electronics, Communications, RF, or equivalent)
• Strong RF fundamentals and ability to perform basic RF analysis
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data processing and analysis
• Experience integrating and testing RF systems and operating RF test equipment (e.g., VNAs, spectrum analysers)
• Experience applying systems engineering best practices and developing documentation (requirements, design documents, test plans)
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight mission deadlines
• Strong communication skills and relationship-building capability

Desirable

• Practical experience with radio communications systems
• Understanding of modulation and coding techniques
• Familiarity with system-level RF analysis for spacecraft and ground stations, including link budget analysis

What We Value

• A proactive “How can I help?” mindset
• Strong ownership and accountability
• Risk-aware decision-making
• Clear, action-driven communication
• Professionalism and commitment to safety
• Flexibility to support broader team needs

This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of RF engineering and mission operations - directly supporting launch readiness and contributing to successful space missions. Apply today!

 

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.