RF Engineer II - Ground Segment

New Zealand·Aucklandmid

OtherRf Engineer

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Quick Summary

Key Responsibilities

Apply systems engineering principles across RF communications and navigation system development Define, develop, and maintain system

Technical Tools

OtherRf Engineer

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.

We are seeking an RF Engineer II - Ground Segment to support the design, development, integration, and verification of ground-based RF communications and navigation systems used to support launch vehicles and satellite operations.

This role is central to enabling reliable Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) links between Earth and space. You will work across the full systems engineering lifecycle, contributing to RF system design, analysis, integration, testing, and operational readiness.

You will thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance engineering environment where adaptability, problem-solving, and attention to detail are essential.

Responsibilities

~1 min read

→Apply systems engineering principles across RF communications and navigation system development
→Define, develop, and maintain system requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), and verification plans
→Collaborate with RF, software, and operations teams to define interfaces, assumptions, and system architecture
→Perform RF system analysis including link budgets, cascaded performance, and trade studies
→Support design, integration, and verification of RF ground and space segment systems
→Conduct RF testing and characterisation using equipment such as VNAs and spectrum analysers
→Troubleshoot RF systems and support root cause analysis during integration and testing
→Contribute to end-to-end Telemetry and Command system design in line with CCSDS standards
→Develop technical documentation, test procedures, and verification reports
→Support commissioning, operations introduction, and system maintenance activities

Requirements

~1 min read

2–3 years’ experience in RF, communications, aerospace, or related engineering fields
Strong understanding of RF fundamentals (modulation, coding, multiple access, link budgets)
Experience with RF analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, HFSS, CST, or similar
Exposure to RF test equipment (VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators)
Systems engineering mindset with experience producing technical documentation
Ability to work under pressure and deliver to tight deadlines
Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively

Requirements

~1 min read

Hands-on RF hardware or ground system experience
Familiarity with antennas, amplifiers, transceivers, filters, and RF subsystems
Knowledge of CCSDS and/or ITU standards
Experience in integration, verification, or operational support environments

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.