Senior RF Regulatory Lead Engineer I/II

SPACE SYSTEMS 

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR RF REGULATORY LEAD ENGINEER I/II

Join our team as the Senior RF Regulatory Lead Engineer I/II, where you’ll work independently under the mentorship of the Global Director of RF Engineering. In this pivotal role, you’ll manage the acquisition of RF licenses for Rocket Lab’s cutting-edge systems and operations, ensuring full compliance with both local and international regulations. You'll have the unique opportunity to develop innovative licensing strategies, secure frequency licenses for our state-of-the-art launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations, and support essential coordination activities. If you're passionate about pioneering advancements in RF engineering and thrive on navigating complex regulatory landscapes, this role is your chance to make a significant impact in the space industry.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Database Management

• Maintain databases of RF licensing technical data for Rocket Lab and third-party transmitters/receivers.
• Track and update RF license applications, supporting data, and issued licenses.
• Keep the Rocket Lab internal wiki updated with license application summaries and status.

Licensing Strategy Development

• Stay informed about existing and emerging radio communications systems and missions.
• Develop licensing strategies aligned with mission requirements and regulatory frameworks.
• Advise on licensing strategies, highlighting trade-offs and risks to stakeholders.

License Arrangement

• Prepare and submit frequency license applications for launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to gather necessary documentation for applications.
• Communicate with regulatory authorities and third-party operators throughout licensing processes.
• Support pre-coordination and coordination activities, and renew licenses as needed.

Policy Awareness and Improvements

• Stay updated on relevant policy developments and notify Rocket Lab stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with key regulatory bodies, such as FCC, NASA, MBIE RSM, and ITU-R.
• Engage with regulators to drive policy and process improvements.

This position can be filled at a Senior RF Regulatory Lead Engineer I or a Senior RF Regulatory Lead Engineer II level.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR RF REGULATORY LEAD ENGINEER I:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree).
• 5+ years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure.
• Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes.
• Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out-of-band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance.
• Hands-on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR RF REGULATORY LEAD ENGINEER II:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree).
• 8+ years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure.
• Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes.
• Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out-of-band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance.
• Hands-on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• In-depth knowledge of FCC/NTIA and ITU RF licensing processes.
• Experience using AGI STK and Python for satellite mission modeling.
• Systematic approach to tasks and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong working relationships.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.  
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise. 
• Willing to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business needs.