RF Engineer (Starlink)

About the role

SpaceX is on the lookout for a talented RF Engineer to contribute to the development and management of radio frequency systems for the Starlink satellite network. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire hardware lifecycle of various components, including phased arrays, Wi-Fi systems, and ground station antennas. Your work will directly impact a wide array of customers around the globe, making it a crucial position within the company.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and evaluate prototypes for advanced phased arrays, gateways, and wireless hardware systems.
• Construct electromagnetic simulation models to assess the performance of antennas, filters, and printed circuit board (PCB) layouts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, mechanical, digital signal processing (DSP), and software engineers, to validate RF system designs.
• Develop and confirm alignment solutions for phased array systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Create production testing solutions and design validation processes aimed at high-volume hardware production.
• Write Python automation scripts to facilitate interactions with testing equipment and documentation systems, enhancing efficiency.
• Conduct thorough testing and analysis of RF components to ensure they meet stringent performance standards.
• Document findings and create detailed reports to communicate results to stakeholders and team members.
• Participate in design reviews and provide insights based on RF performance metrics and testing outcomes.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies to continuously improve RF system designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to RF systems, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns, sharing your expertise and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field is required.
• At least one year of hands-on experience in RF engineering, particularly with antennas or communication systems, which may include relevant internships or projects.
• A minimum of one year of experience using radio frequency test equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and vector signal/network analyzers.
• Proficiency in programming, with at least one year of experience in languages such as MATLAB, C++, C#, or Python.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets related to RF performance.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey technical information clearly to diverse audiences.

Nice to have

• A master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, focusing on RF or antenna design, is advantageous.
• Familiarity with the principles of wireless communication system design and antenna theory.
• Understanding of link budget analysis and the functioning of RF active and passive components.
• Experience in characterizing radio performance at microwave frequencies.
• Background in working within cross-functional teams, enhancing collaborative project outcomes.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages such as Python, C#, C++, and MATLAB.
• Experienced with various RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzers.
• Knowledgeable in electromagnetic simulation software for modeling RF components.
• Skilled in phased array and antenna design methodologies.

Practical notes

• Flexibility to work weekends or extended hours may be necessary to meet critical project deadlines.
• This position is subject to ITAR regulations, thus applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
• SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Individuals requiring reasonable accommodations or access to the Affirmative Action Plan should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

Joining SpaceX as an RF Engineer for the Starlink project means becoming part of a pioneering team dedicated to revolutionizing global internet access through satellite technology. If you are passionate about RF engineering and eager to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in satellite communications, we encourage you to apply. Your expertise will play a vital role in shaping the future of connectivity for millions around the world.