OverviewRocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – with the goal of opening access to space.
The Space Systems team designs and builds our satellites and satellite components for missions across commercial, government, and defence sectors.SENIOR RF ENGINEER - TT & C SYSTEMSAs part of the Space Systems RF team, you'll design, develop, and validate RF communications and navigation systems for Rocket Lab missions.
Reporting to the RF Development Team Lead, you'll apply robust systems engineering to deliver mission-ready hardware that meets tight deadlines.
Contribute to deep space missions and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite development as we expand our presence in the space industry.
Share your knowledge and expertise as we continue to set the benchmark for providing reliable and innovative access to space.WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO : Define, design, and develop advanced RF systems with a systems-first mindsetCollaborate across Avionics, Flight Software, Guidance, Navigation & Control and Operations to align on mission-critical interfaces and requirementsLead RF architecture trades, system analysis, and component selection (antennas, radios, amplifiers, etc.)Ensure seamless ground-to-space comms with robust telemetry and telecommand systemsValidate systems with rigorous test plans and real-world verificationSupport production and provide expert insights during launch and operationsYOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS : Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electronics, Communications, or RF) or equivalentHands-on experience with RF test equipment (signal generators, VNAs, spectrum analyzers)8+ years' experience developing RF communication systems through full product life cyclesExpertise in RF system design, including cascaded device and link analysisStrong knowledge of modulation, channel coding, and multiple access schemesProven track record delivering quality solutions, navigating complex systems, and mentoring peersEffective communicator with strong collaboration and relationship-building skillsExperienced in creating and improving technical documentationTakes ownership of complex issues and leads them to resolutionDedicated mentor who develops others' problem-solving skills and engineering best practicesTHESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE : Familiar with CCSDS standards and ITU radio regulationsKnowledge of RF navigation techniques (GNSS, ranging, two-way doppler)Experience with tools like Ansys STK, Keysight PathWave, HFSS, CST Studio SuiteProficient in coding (C, C++, Python, MATLAB)Whether it's component-level testing or full-system validation, you'll be a key player in getting our missions off the ground — and into orbit.
Apply today!
WHAT TO EXPECTWe'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.FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLYTo 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
This resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from applying / interviewing.
A response to your request may take up to two business days.FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLYFor 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, you may click here ITAR Regulations.
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Senior System Engineer • Auckland, New Zealand