Radio Frequency Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Every Rocket Lab launch depends on Radio Frequency (RF) communications and navigation systems that perform the first time, every time. The RF team designs, qualifies and supports the radio systems that keep our launch vehicles connected to the ground, from telemetry and command links to navigation.

Based in our Auckland Production Complex, the Junior RF Engineer - Test will help make sure every RF component and system that flies on our vehicles has been properly tested, qualified and accepted. You'll plan and run qualification and acceptance tests, build the test rigs and automation that make those tests accurate and repeatable, and support production teams as they integrate RF hardware into flight vehicles.

This is an entry-level role. You'll work closely with experienced RF systems engineers who will guide your work and review it. You'll also get hands-on with real flight hardware from day one. It's a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines, and it's a great place to build deep, practical RF test experience quickly.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Develop qualification and acceptance test plans for RF components and systems, with guidance from senior engineers.
• Perform qualification and acceptance testing, and write clear test reports that document the results.
• Design and build test rigs for component qualification and acceptance testing, including hardware-in-the-loop test equipment.
• Develop novel test methods for radio components and systems.
• Write test automation software that configures equipment, captures and processes measurement data, and presents results.
• Apply a metrological approach to testing so that measurements are accurate and repeatable.
• Document test rigs and how to operate them.
• Develop and maintain work instructions for RF components used by QC, Avionics Production and vehicle assembly teams.
• Support production with test rig operation, review test results, and sign off work instructions where required.
• Support launch vehicle projects by performing trade studies and evaluating prospective components.
• Support the engineering change process and work with other Rocket Lab teams, including Analysis, Vehicle Design and Avionics.
• Provide ad-hoc support wherever the team needs it. No task is beneath us.