Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

SR. RF FRONT-END MODULE DESIGN ENGINEER (RFIC ENGINEERING) 

At SpaceX we’re leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe. 

We are seeking a motivated and technically excellent Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer to develop cutting-edge RF modules for deployment into the Starlink Mobile network. You would be responsible for the specification, material-selection, design, simulation, integration, fabrication, production, measurement, debug, and optimization of compact, multi-chip modules (MCMs) containing custom RF front-end components. Come join us and contribute to RF systems that will expand the performance and capabilities of Starlink Mobile.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Design and develop RF front-end MCMs for 5G NR, LTE, and Wi-Fi applications
• Integrate RFICs (PAs, LNAs, switches), power management ICs, BAW/SAW filters, printed passives, and SMDs into compact MCMs
• Design custom passives (inductors, couplers, etc.) printed into module laminates
• Specify RFIC and BAW filter performances; define pin-to-pin lineups, linearity performances, and coupling specifications of RF modules
• Work closely with BAW filter designers, RFIC designers, and package/layout engineers in module floor-planning
• Perform detailed circuit and EM simulations, and co-simulation of the full module with sub-components
• Conduct lab bring-up, characterization, and debugging of module prototypes; drive learnings into improving and optimizing subsequent prototype iterations
• Manage laminate and assembly suppliers
• Develop ATE test plans and coordinate with OSAT teams on implementation
• Support the integration of RF modules into production PCBAs
• Perform yield analysis and implement design improvements for high-volume production

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science 
• 5+ years of research and/or industry experience in RF/Microwave engineering or RFIC engineering

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering discipline with emphasis in RF/microwave circuits/systems, BAW/SAW resonators, advanced semiconductor packaging, or electromagnetic theory
• Experience in designing multi-chip RF modules for cellular or Wi-Fi applications
• Familiar with MCM substrate/packaging technologies (e.g. double-sided BGA), and manufacturing processes
• BAW filter design experience
• Thorough understanding of RF passive components and EM principles
• Experience in the design of linear and non-linear circuits such as power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers, filters and PLLs
• Module/RF/microwave design using ADS, HFSS, AWR (or similar tools)
• Experience in MATLAB, Python or equivalent tools for modeling and analyzing RF systems
• Familiar with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzers
• Experience characterizing radio performance for cellular and Wi-Fi systems
• Python programming experience for test automation

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to meet critical project milestones  

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay range:     
RFIC Design Engineer/Senior: $160,000.00 - $225,000/per year     
 
Your actual 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 part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [email protected].