RF Phased Array Engineer I

RF Phased Array Engineer I

Based 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.

Product Development

• Support 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
• Model and simulate array performance
• Work alongside an interdisciplinary team of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers
• Support transition developments from new product introduction to production
• Interface with vendors and customers
• Develop test plans and procedures for testing active antennas – included EIRP & G/T
• Design and development of GSE and production automation
• Support the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals

Customer/Program Support

• Support proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needs
• Implement development activities for new requirements
• Support engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs
• Provide technical support to internal/external customers including general questions and anomaly troubleshooting
• Maintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification)
• Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A 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

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Extensive experience in space grade system design
• Extensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses
• Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation
• Experience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites
• Demonstrated expertise in mentoring others.
• Experience leading incident management and investigations.
• Experience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Project management experience