Senior RF Engineer II

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.

SENIOR RF ENGINEERING – LICENSING

Join our team as the Senior RF Engineer - Licensing, 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.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, with a focus on radio communications systems or a related field.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

Join us at Rocket Lab to drive innovation in RF engineering and take on exciting challenges in space exploration. Apply now

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.

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 . 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 .