RF System Operations Engineer II
Job description
Space.
About the role
You will own the end to end setup, validation, and execution of RF ground systems for Terran R launch campaigns, ensuring telemetry receivers and ground station equipment are fully operational. You will integrate and troubleshoot complex RF hardware including antennas, receivers, amplifiers, filters, and distribution networks across diverse environments. You will monitor and validate signal quality metrics such as signal strength, bit error rates, and link performance during live launch operations. You will develop and execute operational procedures, readiness checklists, and troubleshooting guides that set the standard for ground RF systems. You will travel to ground station sites and launch locations to support deployments and operations, with 25 to 50 percent travel expected as part of mission readiness. You will collaborate closely with avionics, propulsion, and manufacturing teams to align RF activities with launch timelines and vehicle requirements. Your work will directly enable the reliability and performance of Terran R communications, contributing to mission success and rapid iteration.
Key facts
What you'll do
Develop and commission RF ground systems in support of Terran R launch campaigns through operation of telemetry receivers and ground station equipment during launches, flight tests, and ground operations.
Integrate and troubleshoot complex RF hardware systems including antennas, receivers, amplifiers, filters, and RF distribution networks across ground and flight configurations.
Monitor and validate signal quality metrics during launch operations including signal strength, bit error rates, and link performance against defined thresholds.
Install, configure, and maintain RF receivers, antennas, and associated cabling to meet mission specific requirements in varied operational environments.
Execute operational procedures, readiness checklists, and troubleshooting guides for ground RF systems to ensure repeatable and reliable performance.
Perform prelaunch, launch, and post-launch assessments of RF links, documenting results and anomalies for review and continuous improvement.
Travel to ground station sites and launch locations to support deployments, operations, and rapid response activities, with 25 to 50 percent travel expected.
Collaborate with cross functional teams including avionics, software, and manufacturing to coordinate RF requirements, interfaces, and test procedures.
Maintain and update technical documentation, interface control documents, and configuration baselines for RF hardware and ground systems.
Support anomaly resolution activities by collecting telemetry data, correlating link metrics, and implementing corrective actions during campaigns.
Contribute to test and verification plans that validate end to end RF communications from vehicle to ground stations.
Promote safety and quality by adhering to strict procedures, standards, and compliance requirements for RF equipment and operations.
Champion continuous improvement by analyzing operational performance, identifying root causes, and implementing process refinements.
Serve as a subject matter expert for RF ground systems, mentoring junior staff and partners on best practices and operational techniques.
Requirements
Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
3+ years of experience with RF systems, ground station operations, and or telemetry systems.
Hands on experience with commercial telemetry receivers and ground station equipment.
Understanding of RF fundamentals including link budgets, distortion, and signal quality metrics.
Demonstrated ability to install, configure, and test RF hardware in field and operational settings.
Experience with RF interference analysis, mitigation techniques and regulatory compliance for radio frequency usage.
Strong troubleshooting skills for complex hardware and signal path issues under time sensitive conditions.
Ability to work independently and make sound decisions while managing multiple priorities in a fast paced environment.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for coordinating with cross functional teams and documenting technical work.
Willingness to travel 25 to 50 percent of the time for ground station deployments and launch operations support.
Ability to pass a background check and meet Relativity employment eligibility requirements.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for this position at the time of hire.
Practical notes
Travel to ground station sites and launch locations to support deployments and operations (25-50% travel expected).
Employment eligibility requirements include the ability to pass a background check and meet Relativity employment eligibility requirements.
This role requires authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship at the time of hire.
The engagement is full-time at the Long Beach, California location.