Manufacturing Engineer II - Assembly & Integration
8% above the median for Mid-Level Engineering roles
SPACE SYSTEMS
At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.
Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.
SENIOR RF TEST ENGINEER I
We’re currently seeking an Senior RF Test Engineer I for our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This team is responsible for building the tools and process to test satellite RF subsystems and our line of radio products.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Develop RF test plans for RF subsystems and payloads.
Manage and conduct Acceptance, Qualification and Proto-Flight test programs on RF systems.
Design, procure and assemble automated test tools for RF subsystems.
Support the design and development of space flight hardware to increase the level of testability and manufacturability
Contribute to the development of engineering and business processes, including engineering and test processes, as well as other business processes to support Rocket Lab growth and capability
Contribute to the development of engineering best practice areas such as test, design for manufacture and engineering change management.
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related technical discipline
5+ years of experience with RF hardware development and RF testing
U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Understanding of electrical test equipment, test procedures, data acquisition systems and instrumentation
Understanding of designing hardware from concept through production
Experience in environmental design testing, such as vibration, shock, thermal, and TVAC
Project/program management skills
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.
Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading 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, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Total Compensation (base and equity)
$144,275—$206,175 USD
Base Salary
$124,000—$170,500 USD