Sr. RF Engineer (Starlink)

About the role

SpaceX is on the lookout for a skilled RF Engineer to lead the development of radio frequency systems for the Starlink satellite network. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of various antenna technologies, including phased arrays, Wi-Fi, and parabolic antennas. Your work will support a diverse range of users, from everyday consumers to critical emergency services, ensuring reliable connectivity across the globe.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and assess prototypes for advanced phased array systems, ground station gateways, and consumer wireless devices.
• Conduct electromagnetic simulations for printed circuit boards (PCBs), filters, and antenna configurations to ensure optimal performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, software, and digital signal processing (DSP) engineers, to validate and enhance system performance.
• Develop and implement alignment strategies for phased array systems to maximize efficiency and accuracy.
• Create comprehensive production and validation testing protocols for high-volume consumer electronics to ensure quality and reliability.
• Utilize Python programming to streamline interactions with testing equipment and maintain accurate documentation systems.
• Analyze system performance data and provide insights to improve existing designs and processes.
• Participate in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues that arise during the development and testing phases.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide guidance on best practices in RF engineering and system design.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in RF technology and integrate relevant innovations into ongoing projects.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations throughout the development process.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field is essential.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in RF engineering, particularly in communication systems or antenna technologies.
• At least 5 years of experience working with radio test equipment, including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and vector signal generators/analyzers.
• Proficiency in programming with C++, C#, MATLAB, or Python, with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in this area.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets related to RF performance.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to addressing engineering challenges.

Nice to have

• A master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, focusing on RF or antenna design, is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with the design of wireless communication systems and their operational principles.
• Understanding of antenna theory and the ability to perform communication link budget analysis.
• Knowledge of both passive and active RF components and their applications.
• Experience in characterizing microwave frequency radio performance and related metrics.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Python, C++, C#, and MATLAB for software development and automation.
• Experienced with electromagnetic simulation software for design validation.
• Skilled in using spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, and vector signal generators for testing and analysis.
• Familiar with network analyzers for assessing RF performance and integrity.

Practical notes

• Candidates should be prepared to work weekends or extended hours as needed to meet critical project deadlines.
• This position is subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, or must qualify for U.S. Department of State export authorizations.
• SpaceX is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or background.

Join SpaceX and contribute to the future of global connectivity through innovative RF engineering solutions for the Starlink satellite network. Your expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of communication technology.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.