Principal RF Software Engineer (Starshield)

OverviewPrincipal RF Software Engineer (Starshield) — SpaceX is seeking a RF software engineer to support Starshield RF capabilities for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. You will work with a team of RF engineers, DSP engineers, software engineers, hardware engineers and end users to design and build RF capabilities for proliferated communications and remote sensing in low Earth orbit. You will work in a highly collaborative and fast-paced environment, where we are exploring unsolved problems and applying the SpaceX mindset of iterating rapidly from design and demo to operational capability.ResponsibilitiesDrive program-level decisions on RF system designsResearch novel solutions for unique large-scale satellite RF systemsDesign, build, validate, and automate RF test benches for full characterization of custom RF designs, often involving vector network analyzers (VNA), vector signal generators (VSG), vector signal analysers (VSA), spectrum analyzers, load-pulls, RF power meters, high-speed oscilloscopes, and other common lab equipmentDesign and build modular, scalable RF test infrastructure and test automation sequences in Python and C++ to support design validation, qualification, and productionWork in close collaboration with hardware, FPGA, DSP, and software engineers to design and validate RF systemsCreate electromagnetic simulation models of hardware to design and evaluate performanceBasic QualificationsBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline8+ years of professional development experience in C/C++ or PythonExperience with radio test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzersRF experience with antennas or communication systemsPreferred Skills and ExperienceMaster’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering disciplineExperience with testing both active and passive RF devices such as filters, amplifiers, mixers, and upconverters/downconvertersExperience with common RF concepts such as gain, linearity, P1dB, ACLR, EVM, PAE, S-parameters, and input/output matchingExperience with software design principles, software architecture, design patterns, and unit/integration testing methodologyExperience with environmental test methodologies and equipment such as thermal chambers and temperature forcing systemsExperience troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware such as network devices and lab instrumentationExperience using Windows and Linux operating systemsExperience with configuration management and version control softwareAdditional RequirementsAbility to obtain and maintain Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearanceActive Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance preferred. Must be willing to pursue a clearance if not already cleared. Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as neededCompensation and BenefitsPay range: RF Software Engineer/Principal: $200,000.00 - $270,000.00 per yearYour actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Those with an active TS/SCI clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $15,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.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 medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks.You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy.ITAR REQUIREMENTSITAR REQUIREMENTS: Learn more about the ITAR.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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17