RF Systems Engineer II - Operations

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our e...

Are you ready to take your career to the next level in the exciting world of space technology? Join our team as an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations and play a pivotal role in ensuring mission operational readiness for Photon TT&C systems and ground stations. If you're passionate about RF communications, systems e...

As an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations, you will work independently under the guidance of the RF Manager to define mission TT&C plans, prepare interface control documents (ICDs), and verify the operational readiness of TT&C systems through rigorous testing. You’ll collaborate with internal teams such as GNC and F...

As an RF Systems Engineer II - Operations, you will work independently under the guidance of the RF Manager to define mission TT&C plans, prepare interface control documents (ICDs), and verify the operational readiness of TT&C systems through rigorous testing. You’ll collaborate with internal teams such as GNC and Flight Software, as well as external ground station operators, to ensure seamless mission execution.
This role is critical to the success of our missions, requiring technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to ensure our systems are ready to perform in the most demanding environments.
Review mission requirements, trajectories, and link analysis to define operational TT&C configurations.
Develop TT&C plans for non-standard missions and engage with cross-functional teams including GNC, Flight Software, and Operations.
Interface Control Documents (ICDs) & Configurations:
Prepare and maintain space-to-ground ICDs.
Manage configuration files for hardware and software, including modems and transceivers.
Develop statements of work for external ground station operators and suppliers.
Ensure ground software architecture, development, and testing meet mission requirements.
Conduct acceptance testing of new ground stations and software solutions to verify operational readiness.
Review integrated systems testing results to ensure correct operation of radio systems and ground infrastructure.
Oversee ground station checkouts and mission preparation activities.
Allocate and select ground stations based on availability and coverage.
Prepare mission ICDs and arrange work orders for required ground stations and configurations.
Analyze HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) runs to verify expected behavior.
Present mission readiness reviews and post-flight data analysis.

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Engineering (Electronics/Communications/RF) or equivalent qualification.
Solid understanding of RF communications system fundamentals and ability to perform basic RF analysis.
Experience integrating and testing RF systems and components, including operating RF test equipment like VNAs and spectrum analyzers.
Familiarity with systems engineering processes and documentation (e.g., requirements specifications, design documents, test plans).
Strong communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships.
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
Hands-on experience with radio communications systems.
General understanding of modulation and coding techniques.
Knowledge of system-level RF analysis for ground stations and spacecraft, including link budget analysis.

If you’re passionate about RF systems engineering and want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of space technology, we want to hear from you!