RF Software Engineer

About the role

The Starshield team at SpaceX is at the forefront of developing satellite technologies aimed at enhancing national security through advanced earth observation, communication systems, and hosted payloads. In this role, you will be instrumental in creating radio frequency capabilities for low Earth orbit systems. This involves close collaboration with various teams, including hardware, digital signal processing (DSP), and software engineers, to transition projects from their initial design phase to full operational deployment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the decision-making process regarding the architecture of RF systems at the program level.
• Explore innovative solutions for the RF systems used in large-scale satellite operations.
• Design, validate, and automate RF testing setups utilizing a range of equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal generators, vector signal analyzers, network analyzers, load pull systems, power meters, and high-speed oscilloscopes.
• Develop a modular RF testing infrastructure and create automation sequences using programming languages like Python and C++.
• Work in tandem with hardware, FPGA, and DSP engineers to ensure the performance of the systems meets required specifications.
• Construct electromagnetic simulation models to assess and refine hardware designs effectively.
• Document testing procedures and results to ensure compliance and facilitate knowledge sharing within the team.
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings to provide insights and updates on RF system performance and testing outcomes.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field is essential.
• At least one year of professional experience working with Python or C/C++.
• A minimum of one year of hands-on experience with radio test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzers.
• At least one year of professional experience in RF technology, particularly in communication systems or antenna design.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex RF systems.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders.

Nice to have

• A master's degree in electrical engineering or a related discipline would be advantageous.
• Experience in testing both passive and active RF components such as amplifiers, filters, mixers, and frequency converters.
• Familiarity with RF concepts such as gain, linearity, P1dB, ACLR, EVM, PAE, S-parameters, and impedance matching.
• Knowledge of software architecture, design patterns, and experience with unit or integration testing.
• Experience with environmental testing equipment, including thermal chambers, is a plus.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware systems.
• Familiarity with both Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Experience with version control and configuration management tools.
• An active TS/SCI clearance or the capability to obtain and maintain one is preferred.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Python and C++, with a strong background in RF test instrumentation.
• Experience with electromagnetic simulation tools and environments.
• Comfortable working in both Linux and Windows operating systems.

Practical notes

• Compensation for this role varies based on experience and level, with Level I positions offering between $125,000 and $145,000 annually, while Level II positions range from $145,000 to $175,000 annually.
• Individuals holding an active clearance may receive a 10% salary differential, which can amount to an additional $20,000 per year, once they are briefed into a classified program.
• Benefits offered include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and more than ten holidays throughout the year.
• Employees may also be eligible for stock awards, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Candidates must be prepared to work weekends and extended hours as needed.
• Those with active clearances will be subject to pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.
• Due to ITAR regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to qualify for this position.