RF Engineer II - Ground Segment

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. RF ENGINEER II – GROUND SEGMENT 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 (TTC) 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. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 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 YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 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 THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 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 You’ll be part of a highly technical team working on systems that directly support space missions. Every day brings new challenges in RF engineering, systems integration, and mission-critical communications. 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 unwaver ... (truncated, view full listing at source)