RF/Microwave Engineer II (Starlink)

RF/MICROWAVE ENGINEER II (STARLINK)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 4M+ 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.Our Satellite Payload Engineering team develops the RF devices that power our satellites and ground antennas - from power amplifiers to waveguide components to reflectors to antennae. The ideal candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary team focused on developing all elements of new high performance wireless digital communication systems from antenna to protocol level. You will be responsible for the design, implementation and verification of the electrical hardware for the satellites and ground communication systems.RESPONSIBILITIES:Simulate and model communication systemsWork with system architects, RF engineers, antenna engineers, modem/DSP, and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domainsAssess feasibility of various designs in support of architectural definitionDerive top-level specifications for RF links and RF and antenna subsystemsCharacterize and analyze system performanceProvide technical support to regulatory, coordination, and market access teamsBASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics or other engineering discipline3+ years of research and/or industry experience in the areas of RF/microwave circuit design1+ years of experience using one of the 3D EM simulation tools (CST, HFSS, FEKO, SEMCAD, EMPro, TICRA or XFDTD)PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:Master’s degree in electrical or computer engineering discipline (or 2y+ industry experience) with emphasis in RF/microwave circuits or electromagnetic theoryExperience with design of linear and non-linear circuits such as power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers, filters and PLLsThorough understanding of RF passive componentsFamiliar with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzersExperience characterizing radio performance at microwave frequenciesKnowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, single and multi-carrier techniques and modulation types such as QPSK, APSK and QAMRF/microwave design using ADS, HFSS, AWR or similarUnderstanding of electromagnetic propagation and antenna systemsSchematic and layout using Altium Designer or other PCB design toolExperience in Matlab, Python, C++ or equivalent tools for modeling and analyzing RF systemsPython and/or LabVIEW programming experience for test automationDigital communication theory with emphasis on bit error rate and system noise figureRF/microwave design in the Ku, Ka, V and E-band frequency rangeADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlinesCOMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:Pay range: RF/Microwave Engineer/Level II: $140,000 - $170,000 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 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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-08