RF Phased Array Engineer I​/II

Position Overview

RF Phased Array Engineer I / II (level selection based on experience). Based at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. Responsible for the development of new RF products and systems, including phased arrays, and assessment of COTS components. Will model and simulate antenna performance for current programs and proposals, working within a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

• Lead product development from architecture design to flight development and production.
• Model and simulate array performance; develop test plans for active antennas (EIRP & G/T).
• Design and develop GSE and production automation.
• Develop product documentation (ICDs, user manuals).
• Support new product introduction and transition to production.
• Interface with vendors, customers, and cross‑disciplinary teams of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers.
• Support proposals, requirements specifications, and compliance assessments.
• Participate in engineering reviews (PDRs, CDRs, TRRs).
• Provide technical support to internal and external customers through troubleshooting and anomaly resolution.
• Monitor product development and production schedules to meet customer and program needs.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications, or equivalent qualification.
• Fundamental RF knowledge: link budget analysis, linearity.
• Solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components.
• Basic knowledge of antenna and array modeling.
• Ability to obtain TS/SCI security clearance.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF communications, or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum 2+ years of relevant experience.
• All qualifications listed for Engineer I, with deeper expertise in antenna and array modeling.
• Ability to obtain TS/SCI security clearance.

• Extensive experience in space‑grade system design.
• Experience with worst‑case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses.
• Experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and documentation.
• Design, integration, and testing experience of RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites.
• Mentoring, incident management, conflict resolution, and communication skills.
• Project management experience and ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines.

• Competitive salary range (CA): $82,000—$126,000 USD.
• Company equity.
• Comprehensive health plan (HMO/PPO, 100% HSA sponsorship).
• Dental and vision coverage.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Paid holidays and flexible benefits (dependent care, disability, life insurance).
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Parental leave and other perks (EV charging, gym, meals).

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR), applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Rocket 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.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the application/interview process should contact Giulia Johnson at  For candidates seeking to work in New Zealand offices, background checks will include nationality checks to ensure eligibility for ITAR compliance.