Rocket Lab

RF Engineer II - Operations

Auckland, New Zealand

Full Time

13 minutes ago

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Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

ENGINEERING

Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space. You’ll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission. Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.

RF Engineer II – Operations

The RF Engineer II - Operations operates independently under the leadership of the Director of RF Engineering to ensure the mission operational readiness of launch vehicle TT&C systems and associated ground stations. This role involves defining the mission TT&C plan and related ICDs, communicating mission TT&C requirements to the GNC and FSW teams, and verifying the operational readiness of TT&C systems. Additionally, the RF Engineer II - Operations collaborates with third-party ground station operators to coordinate mission ground stations and confirm their operational readiness.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Mission Planning and TT&C Configurations:

Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analyses.
Develop and define operational TT&C configurations for standard and non-standard missions, collaborating with GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams.

Data Processing and Analysis:

Develop and maintain data processing scripts to present ground station and launch vehicle telemetry.
Analyze data from HITL testing, identify issues, and track them to resolution.

Mission Process Management:

Review integrated systems testing results to ensure correct operation of radio systems and ground infrastructure.
Complete ground station checkouts, allocate stations based on availability, and ensure mission readiness activities are nominal.

Technical Documentation and Risk Management:

Prepare and present mission readiness reviews and post-flight data analysis.
Assess, communicate, and implement risk mitigation solutions, ensuring long-term risk management.

Ownership and Execution:

Assume ownership of assigned responsibilities, efficiently planning and executing projects.
Prioritise tasks aligned with company goals and continuously improve processes and procedures.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelors degree or diploma in Engineering, majoring in electronics/communications/RF (or an equivalent qualification)
5+ years of relevant experience
An understanding of RF communications system fundamentals and the ability to perform basic RF analysis
Experience applying best practice systems engineering process and developing associated documentation such as requirements specifications, design documents and/or test plans
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationship

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience integrating and testing RF communications system and components and operating RF test equipment including VNAs and spectrum analysers

If this sounds like you, 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.