PRINCIPAL RF ENGINEERBased at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Principal RF Engineer is the technical lead responsible for the development of new RF products and systems (including Rocket Lab's phased arrays) and assessment of COTS components. The Senior RF Phased Array Engineer will model and simulate antenna performance for current programs and proposals. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of antennas at the component and system level and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:Product Development
- Lead end to end efforts including architecture design, prototyping, integration, test, and flight development - Ensure key design decisions and developments are in alignment with product / system needs
- Model and simulate array performance
- Lead efforts along side an interdisciplinary team of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers
- Transition developments from new product introduction to production
- Interface with vendors and customers
- Develop test plans and procedures for testing active antennas - included EIRP & G/T
- Design and development of GSE and production automation
- Support the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals
Customer/Program Support
- Drive proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needs
- Scope and drive development activities for new requirements
- Support engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs
- Provide technical support to internal/external customers including general questions and anomaly troubleshooting
- Maintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PRINCIPAL RF ENGINEER:- Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification) and 8+ years of relevant experience
- Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity.
- A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components
- Experience running modeling and simulation of antenna / phased array performance.
- Deep understanding of the effects of interference on the system.
- Experience in developing and delivering a RF system including assessing requirements, prototyping engineering models, and producing space worthy products.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:- Extensive experience in space grade system design
- Extensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses
- Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation
- Experience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites
- Demonstrated expertise in mentoring others.
- Experience leading incident management and investigations.
- Experience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.
- The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
- Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
- Project management experience
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.
Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay,
you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Total Compensation (base and equity)
$223,025-$339,400 USD
Base Salary
$173,300-$231,000 USD
WHAT TO EXPECTWe'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:
