RF Systems Engineer II - 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. Are you ready to take your career to the next level in the exciting world of space technology? Join our team as an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations and play a pivotal role in ensuring mission operational readiness for Photon TTC systems and ground stations. If you're passionate about RF communications, systems engineering, and working on cutting-edge technology, this is your opportunity to make an impact. ABOUT THE ROLE: As an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations, you will work independently under the guidance of the RF Manager to define mission TTC plans, prepare interface control documents (ICDs), and verify the operational readiness of TTC systems through rigorous testing. You’ll collaborate with internal teams such as GNC and Flight Software, as well as external ground station operators, to ensure seamless mission execution. This role is critical to the success of our missions, requiring technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to ensure our systems are ready to perform in the most demanding environments. IN THIS ROLE YOU’LL: Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analysis to define operational TTC configurations. Develop TTC plans for non-standard missions and engage with cross-functional teams including GNC, Flight Software, and Operations. Interface Control Documents (ICDs) Configurations: Prepare and maintain space-to-ground ICDs. Manage configuration files for hardware and software, including modems and transceivers. Develop statements of work for external ground station operators and suppliers. Ensure ground software architecture, development, and testing meet mission requirements. Conduct acceptance testing of new ground stations and software solutions to verify operational readiness. Review integrated systems testing results to ensure correct operation of radio systems and ground infrastructure. Oversee ground station checkouts and mission preparation activities. Allocate and select ground stations based on availability and coverage. Prepare mission ICDs and arrange work orders for required ground stations and configurations. Analyze HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) runs to verify expected behavior. Present mission readiness reviews and post-flight data analysis. WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: Essential Skills Experience: Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Engineering (Electronics/Communications/RF) or equivalent qualification. Solid understanding of RF communications system fundamentals and ability to perform basic RF analysis. Experience integrating and testing RF systems and components, including operating RF test equipment like VNAs and spectrum analyzers. Familiarity with systems engineering processes and documentation (e.g., requirements specifications, design documents, test plans). Strong communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Desirable Skills: Hands- ... (truncated, view full listing at source)