{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"5dbb3c44ffadfe528f704679","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5dbb3c44ffadfe528f704679","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5dbb3c44ffadfe528f704679","title":"RF Phased Array Engineer I/II","description":"ABOUT ROCKET LAB\nRocket 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.\n\nOur 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.\n\nSPACE SYSTEMS\nAt 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.\n\nOur 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.\n\nRF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I/II\nBased at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the RF Phased Array Engineer is responsible for the development of new RF products and systems (including Rocket Lab’s phased arrays) and assessment of COTS components. The 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.\n\nWHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO\nProduct Development\n\nSupport 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\n\nModel and simulate array performance\n\nWork alongside an interdisciplinary team of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers\n\nSupport transition developments from new product introduction to production\n\nInterface with vendors and customers\n\nDevelop test plans and procedures for testing active antennas – included EIRP & G/T\n\nDesign and development of GSE and production automation\n\nSupport the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals\n\nCustomer/Program Support\n\nSupport proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needs\n\nImplement development activities for new requirements\n\nSupport engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs\n\nProvide technical support to internal/external customers including general questions and anomaly troubleshooting\n\nMaintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied\n\n(Note: This position can be filled at an RF Phased Array Engineer I or RF Phased Array Engineer II level.)\n\nYOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I\n\nBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification)\n\nFundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components\n\nBasic knowledge of antenna and array modeling\n\nAbility to obtain TS / SCI\n\nYOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER II\n\nBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification) and 2+ years of relevant experience\n\nFundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components\n\nBasic knowledge of antenna and array modeling\n\nAbility to obtain TS / SCI\n\nTHESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE\n\nExtensive experience in space grade system design\n\nExtensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses\n\nExtensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation\n\nExperience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites\n\nDemonstrated expertise in mentoring others.\n\nExperience leading incident management and investigations.\n\nExperience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.\n\nThe ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines\n\nEffective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships\n\nProject management experience\n\nThis 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.\n\nLevel 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.\n\nBase 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.\n\nEligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.\n\nBase Pay Range (CA Only)\n$82,000—$126,000 USD\n\nWHAT TO EXPECT\nWe’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.\n\nImportant information\nFOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY\nTo 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.\n\nRocket 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.\n\nApplicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com. 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.\n\nFOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY\nFor 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.\n\nUnder 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 ITAR Regulations.\n\n#J-18808-Ljbffr","company":"Rocket Lab","rawCompany":"rocket lab","city":"Long Beach","state":"CA","isRemote":false,"isActive":true,"createdAt":"2026-07-20T03:14:33.525Z","occupations":[{"code":"17-2011.00","title":"Aerospace Engineers","slug":"aerospace-engineers"},{"code":"17-2072.00","title":"Electronics Engineers, Except Computer","slug":"electronics-engineers-except-computer"},{"code":"17-2199.00","title":"Engineers, All Other","slug":"engineers-all-other"}],"industries":[{"code":"927110","title":"Space Research and Technology","slug":"space-research-and-technology"},{"code":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"},{"code":"334511","title":"Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing","slug":"search-detection-navigation-guidance-aeronautical-and-nautical-system-and-instrument-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"RF Phased Array Engineer I/II","description":"ABOUT ROCKET LAB\nRocket 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.\n\nOur 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.\n\nSPACE SYSTEMS\nAt 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.\n\nOur 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.\n\nRF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I/II\nBased at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the RF Phased Array Engineer is responsible for the development of new RF products and systems (including Rocket Lab’s phased arrays) and assessment of COTS components. The 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.\n\nWHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO\nProduct Development\n\nSupport 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\n\nModel and simulate array performance\n\nWork alongside an interdisciplinary team of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers\n\nSupport transition developments from new product introduction to production\n\nInterface with vendors and customers\n\nDevelop test plans and procedures for testing active antennas – included EIRP & G/T\n\nDesign and development of GSE and production automation\n\nSupport the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals\n\nCustomer/Program Support\n\nSupport proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needs\n\nImplement development activities for new requirements\n\nSupport engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs\n\nProvide technical support to internal/external customers including general questions and anomaly troubleshooting\n\nMaintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied\n\n(Note: This position can be filled at an RF Phased Array Engineer I or RF Phased Array Engineer II level.)\n\nYOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I\n\nBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification)\n\nFundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components\n\nBasic knowledge of antenna and array modeling\n\nAbility to obtain TS / SCI\n\nYOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER II\n\nBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification) and 2+ years of relevant experience\n\nFundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components\n\nBasic knowledge of antenna and array modeling\n\nAbility to obtain TS / SCI\n\nTHESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE\n\nExtensive experience in space grade system design\n\nExtensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses\n\nExtensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation\n\nExperience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites\n\nDemonstrated expertise in mentoring others.\n\nExperience leading incident management and investigations.\n\nExperience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.\n\nThe ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines\n\nEffective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships\n\nProject management experience\n\nThis 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.\n\nLevel 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.\n\nBase 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.\n\nEligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.\n\nBase Pay Range (CA Only)\n$82,000—$126,000 USD\n\nWHAT TO EXPECT\nWe’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.\n\nImportant information\nFOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY\nTo 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.\n\nRocket 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.\n\nApplicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com. 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.\n\nFOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY\nFor 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.\n\nUnder 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 ITAR Regulations.\n\n#J-18808-Ljbffr","datePosted":"2026-07-20T03:14:33.525Z","dateModified":"2026-07-20T03:14:33.525Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Rocket Lab","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Long Beach","addressRegion":"CA","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"5dbb3c44ffadfe528f704679"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5dbb3c44ffadfe528f704679"}}