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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior RF Digital Payload Engineer II to develop next-generation digital payload products including modems, processors, and network routers for space applications. Based at the Long Beach headquarters, you will own the complete product lifecycle from initial concept through in-flight operations, including board layout, bring-up, qualification, and production.
In the product development domain, you will define and maintain requirements specifications, architect digital product designs, and ensure alignment across the development process. You'll design and prototype digital products with component selection and PCB layout, support test plan development, and collaborate on ground support equipment and production automation. You'll also develop critical documentation including interface control documents and user manuals, working closely with test and manufacturing engineers to drive new product introduction.
On the customer and program support side, you'll review proposals and requirements to assess compliance with existing capabilities, scope development activities for new requirements, and support engineering reviews (PDRs, CDRs, TRRs). You'll provide technical support to internal and external customers, troubleshoot anomalies, and maintain awareness of development and production schedules.
You bring 8+ years of space electronics experience with deep expertise in high-speed serial interfaces (SPI, PCIe, Ethernet), system-on-chip design, microcontrollers, and digital signal processing. You have a proven track record developing and delivering digital products from requirements assessment through space-worthy production. Strong knowledge of DSP algorithms and communication theory is essential. U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
Nice-to-have qualifications include ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance, extensive modem and modem component experience, space-grade board design expertise, circuit analysis skills (timing, physical constraints), experience leading complex engineering programs, and background designing and testing communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites.
