RF Engineer I/II - Radar

Rocket Lab Corporation • Long Beach, CA

3d • $82,400 - $126,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we are looking for a RF Engineer I/II – Radar who will support the development of radar and RF systems including SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) and space-based radar applications. You will work alongside experienced radar engineers to develop radar subsystems, conduct analysis and simulation, and support hands-on testing and integration activities. The successful candidate will have foundational knowledge of radar systems, RF engineering principles, and basic understanding of orbital mechanics and spacecraft systems, and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
(Please note: this position can be hired at the RF Engineer I or RF Engineer II level.)

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related field
• Foundational knowledge of radar systems including radar equation and basic signal processing concepts
• Academic or professional exposure to SAR systems, space-based radar, or remote sensing
• Basic understanding of orbital mechanics including orbit types (LEO, MEO, GEO), ground tracks, and coverage concepts
• Foundational awareness of spacecraft systems and how subsystems interact with payloads
• Basic understanding of RF systems including link budgets, amplifiers, and receiver architectures
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for analysis and simulation
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements
• Ability to obtain a TS / SCI clearance
• 2+ years of experience in a relevant field

Nice To Haves

• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Eagerness to learn and develop expertise in space-based radar and RF engineering
• Existing security clearance
• Internship or research experience with space-based radar systems or SAR
• Experience with radar simulation tools (STK, MATLAB Phased Array Toolbox, etc.) including orbital modeling
• Coursework in orbital mechanics, spacecraft design, or astrodynamics
• Hands-on experience with RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers)
• Coursework or projects involving digital signal processing or image processing
• Knowledge of radar imaging modes (stripmap, spotlight, ScanSAR) for space platforms
• Experience with phased array antennas or beamforming
• Familiarity with RF design tools (AWR, ADS, CST)
• Understanding of space environment effects on electronics and systems
• Knowledge of launch environments and spacecraft qualification processes
• Strong interest in space technology and satellite systems
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Experience with version control (Git) and software development practices

Responsibilities

• Support the development of space-based radar systems including architecture design, prototyping, integration, test, and flight development
• Assist in radar link budget analysis and performance modeling considering orbital parameters
• Conduct radar system simulations using MATLAB, Python, or specialized radar tools including basic orbital analysis
• Support radar design trades for waveforms, timing, PRF selection, and RF component selection for space applications
• Perform radar calculations including range/Doppler resolution, SNR, coverage analysis, and basic orbital effects
• Assist with mission analysis including ground track visualization, access time calculations, and revisit analysis
• Assist in the development of test plans and procedures for radar payload testing
• Support radar calibration activities and image quality assessments
• Help develop technical documentation including test reports, analysis summaries, and ICDs
• Learn spacecraft integration considerations including power budgets, thermal interfaces, and data handling requirements
• Support radar waveform design and analysis for space-based mission applications
• Participate in hands-on radar testing including EIRP, sensitivity, and imaging tests
• Support RF component testing and characterization for space qualification
• Assist with radar data collection and post-processing activities
• Work with multidisciplinary teams including RF, digital, systems, and spacecraft engineers
• Learn and apply space-based radar system best practices under mentorship of senior engineers
• Assist in the review of radar requirements and specifications
• Support proposal development activities with technical analysis and documentation
• Participate in engineering reviews and technical meetings
• Provide technical support for radar-related questions and troubleshooting
• Track product development schedules and deliverables

Benefits

• Company stock
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock)
• Top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution)
• Dental and vision coverage
• Paid vacation and sick time
• 11 paid holidays
• Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
• Paid parental leave
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Subsidized EV charging
• Onsite fitness centers (where available)
• Discounted gym memberships
• Complimentary snacks and beverages
• 50% employee discount on our popular merch store
• Variety of other employee discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level