RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager

Company: Rocket Lab Corporation
Location: Long Beach
Posted on: February 10, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description 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 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. RF REGULATORY AND LICENSING MANAGER Join our team as the RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager , where you'll work independently under the mentorship of the Global Director of RF Engineering. In this pivotal role, you'll manage the acquisition of RF licenses for Rocket Lab's cutting-edge systems and operations, ensuring full compliance with both local and international regulations. You'll have the unique opportunity to develop innovative licensing strategies, secure frequency licenses for our state-of-the-art launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations, and support essential coordination activities. If you're passionate about pioneering advancements in RF engineering and thrive on navigating complex regulatory landscapes, this role is your chance to make a significant impact in the space industry. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO : Database Management Maintain databases of RF licensing technical data for Rocket Lab and third-party transmitters/receivers. Track and update RF license applications, supporting data, and issued licenses. Keep the Rocket Lab internal wiki updated with license application summaries and status. Licensing Strategy Development Stay informed about existing and emerging radio communications systems and missions. Develop licensing strategies aligned with mission requirements and regulatory frameworks. Advise on licensing strategies, highlighting trade-offs and risks to stakeholders. License Arrangement Prepare and submit frequency license applications for launch vehicles, satellites, and ground stations. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to gather necessary documentation for applications. Communicate with regulatory authorities and third-party operators throughout licensing processes. Support pre-coordination and coordination activities, and renew licenses as needed. Policy Awareness and Improvements Stay updated on relevant policy developments and notify Rocket Lab stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with key regulatory bodies, such as FCC, NASA, MBIE RSM, and ITU-R. Engage with regulators to drive policy and process improvements. This position can be filled at a RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager I or a RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager II level. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A RF REGULATORY AND LICENSING MANAGER I: Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree). 5 years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure. Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes. Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out-of-band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance. Hands-on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A RF REGULATORY AND LICENSING MANAGER II: Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or other engineering degree). 8 years of experience as an RF regulatory/licensing engineer or in RF engineering roles with extensive RF licensing exposure. Familiarity with ITU radio regulations and general RF licensing processes. Ability to apply fundamental RF knowledge to perform analyses such as cascaded device analysis, link analysis, interference analysis, out-of-band emissions assessments, and power flux density limit compliance. Hands-on experience with RF communications systems in development, verification, or operational roles. THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: In-depth knowledge of FCC/NTIA and ITU RF licensing processes. Experience using AGI STK and Python for satellite mission modeling. Systematic approach to tasks and meticulous attention to detail. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong working relationships. 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 needs. 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) $130,000—$190,000 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This 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.

Keywords: Rocket Lab Corporation, Fountain Valley , RF Regulatory and Licensing Manager, Engineering , Long Beach, California