At Rocket Lab, we don’t just launch rockets - we build the systems that connect them to Earth. From mission-critical communications to global ground networks, our RF team keeps every launch and satellite linked, locked, and performing.

We’re looking for an RF Team Lead – Ground Segment to take ownership of the systems that make mission success possible.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

This is more than a leadership role - it’s your chance to own and evolve the ground segment behind our launch and space systems.

You’ll lead a tight-knit team of engineers and technicians, driving the design, development, and operation of Rocket Lab’s ground-based RF communications and navigation systems. From ground stations and network architecture to mission readiness and real-time support, you’ll sit at the intersection of engineering excellence and operational delivery.

Expect to move fast, solve hard problems, and make decisions that directly impact missions.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING: 

• Set direction, coach performance, and build capability in a team responsible for critical RF infrastructure.
• Act as the SME and product owner for ground station systems, covering RF performance, network architecture, modems, and mission interfaces.
• Drive development, commissioning, and upgrades of ground stations and global networks.
• Partner with SpaceOps to prepare for missions, support operations, and ensure systems are ready when it counts.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and program teams, plus external ground station providers - to deliver end-to-end solutions.
• Contribute to strategic projects, roadmap new capabilities, and support business development with RF expertise.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING:

• Proven RF leadership experience, with the ability to mentor and engage teams while consistently delivering under fast-paced, high-pressure timelines.
• Strong fundamentals in RF design: link budgets, cascaded analysis, modulation/coding.
• Experience with RF test and verification (VNAs, spectrum analysers, system-level testing).
• Solid systems engineering mindset - requirements, validation, documentation.
• Knowledge of IP networking and real-world RF system deployment.

NICE TO HAVE:

• Python or LabVIEW for test automation
• Networking certifications (e.g. CCNA)
• Familiarity with CCSDS standards or frequency licensing

WHY ROCKET LAB:

• Work on systems that directly support real missions to space
• Lead a team with meaningful ownership and autonomy
• Be part of a company that moves fast and builds what others only design
• Tackle complex, high-impact engineering challenges every day

If you’re ready to lead from the front and build the RF backbone of space missions, we want to hear from you.

Apply now and help us connect Earth to space.

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

ABOUT ENGINEERING AT ROCKET LAB:

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.  

RF Test Engineer Intern | Neutron Launch Vehicle

The Mission As an RF Test Engineer Intern, you won’t just be watching from the sidelines—you’ll be a frontline contributor to the certification of Neutron, our next-generation medium-lift launch vehicle. You will partner with elite RF and System Engineers to push hardware to its absolute limits, ensuring our tech survives the brutal environments of re-use and meets the rigorous standards of national security missions.

What You’ll Achieve

• Command a High-Performance Portfolio: Get hands-on with the hardware that makes flight possible, including advanced radios, high-gain antennas, amplifiers, and complex passive systems.

• Architect the Test Strategy: Don't just follow a checklist. You’ll define comprehensive test campaigns tailored to cut-edge regulatory and customer requirements.

• Bridge the Engineering Gap: Act as the technical glue between RF, Avionics, and Manufacturing teams to build "fit-for-purpose" test solutions that actually work in the real world.

• Build the Future: Design, adapt, or build the very test assets and ground support equipment used to validate our flight hardware.

• Lead the Charge: Own the execution of critical qualification tests—from S-parameters and noise figures to the "shake and bake" of thermal cycling, vibration, shock, and leakage.

What You Bring to the Launchpad

• The Academic Foundation: Currently pursuing a degree in Electronics, Communications, or RF Engineering (or equivalent).

• The "Maker" Mindset: Real-world, hands-on experience with the heavy hitters of the lab: VNAs, Spectrum Analyzers, and Signal Generators.

• Theoretical Sharpness: A solid grasp of transmission line theory and the physics of how signals move.

• The Drive: A passion for space systems and a desire to see your work leave the atmosphere.

If the above sounds like you apply now!

About the Role

As an RF Systems Engineer I – Operations, you will play a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of launch vehicle TT&C (Telemetry, Tracking & Command) systems and their supporting ground stations.

Working closely with RF, GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams, you will help define mission TT&C strategies, manage space-to-ground interfaces, and verify that communications systems are fully prepared to support mission success.

This is a hands-on, mission-focused role where your work directly contributes to launch readiness and post-flight analysis.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Mission Planning & TT&C Strategy

• Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analyses to define optimal operational TT&C configurations
• Support development of TT&C plans for non-standard missions
• Collaborate cross-functionally with GNC, Flight Software, and Operations teams to ensure seamless integration

Interface Control & Configuration Management

• Support development and maintenance of space-to-ground Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
• Establish and manage configuration files for key RF hardware and software (modems, transceivers, etc.)
• Ensure accurate alignment between mission requirements and operational configurations

Data Processing & Analysis

• Develop and maintain Python or MATLAB scripts to process and present telemetry data clearly and effectively
• Analyse HITL (Hardware-In-The-Loop) and operational data
• Identify anomalies, raise issues, and track resolution through to closure

Mission Execution & Readiness

• Review integrated systems testing results to verify correct radio system and ground infrastructure operation
• Support ground station checkout and mission preparation activities
• Allocate ground stations based on availability and coverage requirements
• Prepare mission ICDs and coordinate required work orders
• Contribute to vehicle, range, and launch readiness reviews
• Conduct post-flight data analysis and present findings
• Continuously improve processes and procedures

What Success Looks Like

You will:

• Take ownership of your systems and deliver results
• Escalate risk appropriately and apply sound engineering judgement
• Communicate clearly and proactively across teams
• Create high-quality technical documentation and presentations
• Contribute positively to a collaborative, mission-driven environment

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Engineering (Electronics, Communications, RF, or equivalent)
• Strong RF fundamentals and ability to perform basic RF analysis
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data processing and analysis
• Experience integrating and testing RF systems and operating RF test equipment (e.g., VNAs, spectrum analysers)
• Experience applying systems engineering best practices and developing documentation (requirements, design documents, test plans)
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight mission deadlines
• Strong communication skills and relationship-building capability

Desirable

• Practical experience with radio communications systems
• Understanding of modulation and coding techniques
• Familiarity with system-level RF analysis for spacecraft and ground stations, including link budget analysis

What We Value

• A proactive “How can I help?” mindset
• Strong ownership and accountability
• Risk-aware decision-making
• Clear, action-driven communication
• Professionalism and commitment to safety
• Flexibility to support broader team needs

This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of RF engineering and mission operations - directly supporting launch readiness and contributing to successful space missions. Apply today!

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 TT&C 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 TT&C plans, prepare interface control documents (ICDs), and verify the operational readiness of TT&C 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 TT&C configurations.
• Develop TT&C 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-on experience with radio communications systems.
• General understanding of modulation and coding techniques.
• Knowledge of system-level RF analysis for ground stations and spacecraft, including link budget analysis.

If you’re passionate about RF systems engineering and want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of space technology, we want to hear from you!

Apply now to join us as an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations and take your career to new heights.