Sr. RFIC Engineer (Starshield)

About the role

The Sr. RFIC Design Engineer (Starshield) operates at the intersection of satellite communications and national security within SpaceX's Starshield division. This position is responsible for architecting and developing advanced RF integrated circuits that enable next-generation space and ground-based infrastructure. The role emphasizes rapid prototyping and iteration in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where mission timelines are critical. You will work directly with system architects and modem experts to define hardware boundaries and ensure alignment with broader Starshield objectives. Success in this role requires a deep commitment to designing circuits that perform reliably in demanding orbital and terrestrial conditions. The position leverages SpaceX's existing Starlink technology and launch capabilities to advance earth observation and hosted payloads for government applications. Ultimately, the engineer ensures that theoretical RFIC designs transition into functional hardware that supports secure and resilient communications.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect and develop advanced RFIC modules from initial intake through production rollout, ensuring designs meet stringent performance criteria.
• Design, simulate, and verify circuits using industry-standard tools to guarantee timely hardware deployment and compliance with system requirements.
• Participate in function partitioning sessions with system architects, modem experts, and ASIC engineers to clearly define hardware and software boundaries.
• Perform IC floor planning and create detailed layout designs while managing packaging prototypes to ensure manufacturability and reliability.
• Develop parasitic models for external components to support production qualification and reduce field failure risks.
• Evaluate prototypes using laboratory instruments, analyzing electrical characteristics to validate design intent and performance margins.
• Assist in building automated test equipment for measurement procedures, improving test coverage and reducing manual effort.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to establish robust production testing methodologies and ensure high-quality outcomes for each batch.
• Create documentation guidance that supports ground infrastructure deployment and mission operations, ensuring clarity for future engineering teams.
• Work with external partners to align testing, compliance, and integration efforts for both space and ground segments, facilitating smooth project execution.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as electrical engineering or computer engineering, as this foundation is mandatory for the role.
• Possess five or more years of professional RF integrated circuit experience to ensure capability in handling complex design challenges independently.
• Demonstrate proficiency in simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS, HFSS, or Momentum to model and analyze high-frequency circuits accurately.
• Show circuit design proficiency in both linear and non-linear analysis, including phase-locked loops, vector modulators, oscillators, mixers, filters, and amplifiers.
• Understand digital communication systems deeply, including spread spectrum, single and multi-carrier techniques, and modulation schemes like QPSK, APSK, and QAM.
• Have a firm grasp of RF transceiver architectures and their implementation in real-world applications.
• Bring deep theory and MMIC design experience for RF front ends spanning S-band to W-band, critical for advanced space applications.
• Be familiar with radio test equipment, including spectrum analyzers and vector signal generators, to perform accurate measurements and debugging.
• Have experience characterizing radio performance at microwave frequencies to validate designs under realistic operating conditions.

Nice to have

• Advanced degrees such as a Master's or PhD are valued for specialized roles and may provide an edge in competitive selection.
• Prior experience with automated test equipment frameworks and custom measurement scripts to accelerate test development.
• Knowledge of radiation-hardened or space-qualified components and their implications for RFIC design in orbital environments.
• Exposure to DO-254 or similar aerospace standards for hardware assurance and compliance documentation.
• Familiarity with secure communication protocols and cryptographic hardware integration within RF transceivers.

Practical notes

The role requires flexibility to work extended hours and weekends around critical project milestones and launch schedules. Willingness to travel for off-site testing, calibration, and integration activities at remote facilities is required. Holding an active security clearance enables participation in sensitive missions and may be necessary for certain assignments. Pre-employment drug and random alcohol testing apply to these positions as part of SpaceX's safety and compliance standards.