RF Test Engineer I/II

About this role

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 to 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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

RF TEST ENGINEER I/II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the  RF TEST ENGINEER I/II is responsible for testing RF components and spacecrafts for the space systems team. The RF Test Engineer supports test setup design, qualification of components, and production troubleshooting. This RF Test Engineer will be the focal for EMI/EMC testing and evaluation. The ideal RF Test Engineer will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, and reliably meet tight project deadlines.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Test Planning and Preparation:

• Design test setups.

• Develop test scripts to automate tests.

• Develop test plans and procedures.

• Seek input from RF engineers as necessary to support test setup design/analysis.

• Arrange/purchase test equipment and components as needed.

Test Conduct and Reporting:

• Establish test setups.

• Conduct testing.

• Post-process test data.

• Develop test reports.

Production Support:

• Train and support production technicians.

• Support the production process.

• Seek input from RF engineers as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS RF TEST ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Communications, RF, or other technical discipline

• Working knowledge of common RF components such as splitters, attenuators, amplifiers and frequency converters and their general RF performance characteristics.

• Solid theoretical understanding of RF test and measurement principles.

• General understanding of EMI/EMC testing

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS RF TEST ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Communications, RF, or other technical discipline

• 2+ years' experience across all aspects of RF device/system testing including test planning, conduct, and reporting.

• Working knowledge of common RF components such as splitters, attenuators, amplifiers and frequency converters and their general RF performance characteristics.

• Solid theoretical understanding of RF test and measurement principles.

• Highly proficient in using RF test and measurement equipment such as; Vector Network Analyzers (VNA) and spectrum analyzer.

• Understanding of MIL-STD-461 and SMC-S-016

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Experience developing test scripts and automated test setups.

• Ability to meet tight deadlines in a fast paced environments.

• Effective communication and documentation skills and the ability to build strong working relationships.

• Working knowledge of RF communications systems including; modulation and coding, cascaded RF device performance, and link analysis.

• Experience performing end-to-end testing of RF communications systems for example; Eb/N0 vs BER testing.

• Familiarity with the ITU radio regulations along with general RF licensing processes and dependencies.

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. 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.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role.

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