Senior Network Design Engineer I/II Pipeline

About The Role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.  

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 extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

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 NETWORK DESIGN ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we are looking for a Senior Network Design Engineer I/II for a future opening who will be responsible for the space system network architecture design. The Senior Network Design Engineer will provide payload solutions to a variety of space missions including 5G NTN and D2D connectivity. The successful candidate will have had designed and delivered various types of payload solutions, and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Architecture Definition – Drive the design and development of various payload architectures based on proposal and mission planning
• Capability Definitions - Scope and drive development activities for new products. Define use cases and requirements flow down for product development
• Requirements Verification – Collaborate with design and test engineers to ensure all requirements are met
• End to End Execution – Lead and manage payload design for initial concept to in-orbit operations
• Cross Disciplinary Coordination – Act as the primary contact between business development, engineering, manufacturing, vendors, and customers

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Network Design Engineer I or Senior Network Design Engineer II level)  

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR NETWORK DESIGN ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science; or other engineering discipline
• 5+ years of experience in space system network architecture
• Deep understanding of 5G NTN core integration, backhaul and D2D connectivity design, and/or edge computing for CU/DU functional split
• Demonstrated experience in using scripting language in a relevant context (Python, C#, C++)
• Experience working with a variety of customers including commercial, civil, and military in developing mission solutions
• U.S citizenship required due to program requirements

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR NETWORK DESIGN ENGINEER II:

• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, computer science; or other engineering discipline
• 8+ years of experience in space system network architecture 
• Deep understanding of 5G NTN core integration, backhaul and D2D connectivity design, and/or edge computing for CU/DU functional split
• Demonstrated experience in using scripting language in a relevant context (Python, C#, C++)
• Experience working with a variety of customers including commercial, civil, and military in developing mission solutions
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI
• Familiarity with 5G NTN protocols
• Experience in embedded software development or architecture
• Familiarity with model based systems engineering
• Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Project management experience
• Strong communication skills to articulate solutions to wide audiences

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus 
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise
• Willing to work extra hours and weekends as needed to meet critical business requirements

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.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$140,000—$200,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at View email address on rocketlabcorp.com dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.