RFIC Design Engineer

About the role

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. The RFIC Design Engineer will own the full design and delivery of next-generation radio frequency integrated circuits that power Starlink, shaping how the world connects. You will derive specifications, perform detailed simulation and modeling, and guide circuit partitioning between hardware and software. This role will see you evaluating prototypes, characterizing radio performance, and working closely with manufacturing on production testing. You will directly expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network to underserved regions everywhere. The position demands intellectual curiosity, proactive problem solving, and collaboration across world-class cross-disciplinary teams. Your work will enable connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable.

Key facts

What you'll do

Derive specifications for RFIC subsystems and circuits in support of Starlink infrastructure.

Design, simulate, and model RF, analog, and mixed-signal circuits to meet demanding space and ground system requirements.

Develop analog, mixed-signal, and RF/microwave circuits in SiGe or CMOS processes for next-generation connectivity.

Partition functions between hardware and software in close collaboration with system architects, modem, and ASIC engineers.

Perform IC floor planning and execute detailed layout work to meet performance and area targets.

Model package and external parasitic components to ensure robust radio performance in the field.

Evaluate and characterize prototypes of the design using both internal and external test methods.

Characterize and analyze full radio performance across frequency bands from Ku-band through Ka-band.

Assist in the development of automated test lab equipment for laboratory measurements and validation.

Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing, qualification, and yield improvement of RFIC components and systems.

Support critical project milestones by working long hours and weekends as necessary to meet demanding delivery timelines.

Leverage simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS, HFSS, or Momentum for circuit and electromagnetic analysis.

Apply knowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, and multi-carrier techniques including QPSK, APSK, and QAM.

Utilize RF transceiver architectures and demonstrate mastery of RF/microwave design in satellite frequency bands.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science is required.

2+ years of RF integrated circuit experience is mandatory for this role.

Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones.

U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status is required due to export control and security regulations.

Eligible to obtain a U.S. government security clearance at the level required by SpaceX for this position.

Must be able to commute to or be relocated to Redmond, Washington for the duration of the assignment.

Must possess the authorized work authorization in the country of assignment without requiring sponsorship for the duration of the assignment.

Candidates must demonstrate the capability to independently solve complex engineering problems and exercise sound technical judgment.

Nice to have

Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering or computer engineering with an emphasis in RF/Analog/Mixed-signal integrated circuit design.

Experience using simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS, HFSS or Momentum.

Circuit design skills, and experience performing analysis and simulation of both linear and non-linear circuits such as phase-locked loops, vector modulators/demodulators, oscillators, mixers, filters, low noise and power amplifiers.

Knowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, single and multi-carrier techniques and modulation types such as QPSK, APSK and QAM.

Knowledge of RF transceiver architectures.

RF/microwave design in the Ku-band, K-band and Ka-band frequency range.

Familiarity with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzers.

Experience characterizing radio performance in microwave frequencies.

Practical notes

This is a full-time position based in Redmond, Washington.

Long hours and weekend work may be required to support critical milestones.

U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status is required.

Eligible to obtain a U.S. government security clearance is necessary.

Work authorization in the country of assignment must be valid for the full engagement without sponsorship.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

International candidates residing in the United States are eligible to apply provided they meet all authorization and clearance requirements.