RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager

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 Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, such as solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, and radios. The team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration to in‑space manufacturing, national security, and defense initiatives.

Join our team as the RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager, where you’ll work independently under the mentorship of the Global Director of RF Engineering. In this pivotal role, you’ll manage the acquisition of RF licenses for Rocket Lab’s cutting‑edge systems and operations, ensuring full compliance with both local and international regulations. You’ll develop innovative licensing strategies, secure frequency licenses for launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations, and support essential coordination activities.

Make a significant impact in the space industry.

• Maintain databases of RF licensing technical data for Rocket Lab and third‑party transmitters/receivers.
• Track and update RF license applications, supporting data, and issued licenses.
• Keep the Rocket Lab internal wiki updated with license application summaries and status.
• Stay informed about existing and emerging radio communications systems and missions.
• Develop licensing strategies aligned with mission requirements and regulatory frameworks.
• Advise on licensing strategies, highlighting trade‑offs and risks to stakeholders.

• Prepare and submit frequency license applications for launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to gather necessary documentation for applications.
• Communicate with regulatory authorities and third‑party operators throughout licensing processes.
• Support pre‑coordination and coordination activities, and renew licenses as needed.

• Stay updated on relevant policy developments and notify Rocket Lab stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with key regulatory bodies, such as FCC, NASA, MBIE RSM, and ITU‑R.
• Engage with regulators to drive policy and process improvements.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree).
• 5+ years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure.
• Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes.
• Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out‑of‑band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance.
• Hands‑on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree).
• 8+ years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure.
• Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes.
• Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out‑of‑band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance.
• Hands‑on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles.

• In‑depth knowledge of FCC/NTIA and ITU RF licensing processes.
• Experience using AGI STK and Python…