Wireless Systems Engineer

About the role

In this position, you will be responsible for the design and development of advanced wireless communication algorithms tailored for the Starlink Mobile satellite network and its future expansions. Your primary objective will be to enhance system performance and ensure the global deployment of these algorithms. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of wireless communication systems and a strong understanding of 3GPP RAN protocols.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and refine algorithms for wireless systems focusing on the MAC and PHY layers, which encompass link adaptation, power control, timing adjustments, and Doppler tracking.
• Design and simulate intricate MAC layer scheduling algorithms that facilitate joint user scheduling across multiple beams, while taking into account quality of service (QoS) and latency requirements.
• Investigate inter-cell and inter-beam interference issues affecting both uplink and downlink communications, identifying problems that arise in orbit and proposing solutions through beam planning, MAC scheduling, or advanced signal processing techniques.
• Execute link and system-level simulations to evaluate the performance of algorithms across all layers of the protocol stack.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers to ensure the successful implementation and deployment of algorithms into orbit.
• Validate algorithm performance in a production environment by utilizing key performance indicator (KPI) analysis, high-rate telemetry, and user equipment (UE) log evaluations.
• Create high-fidelity models for non-terrestrial wireless systems that adhere to 3GPP protocols, including 4G, 5G, and 6G standards.
• Engage in continuous improvement of existing algorithms based on performance data and emerging technologies in wireless communication.
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings to align on project goals and share insights on algorithm development and performance.
• Prepare comprehensive documentation of algorithms and their performance metrics for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in wireless communication technologies to inform future algorithm development.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related STEM field, accompanied by at least one year of engineering experience (internships or project work are considered); or a minimum of five years of professional engineering experience without a degree.
• Familiarity with MAC and PHY layer protocols and algorithms used in cellular base stations.
• Proficiency in 3GPP protocols and their application in wireless systems.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as required by project demands.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or eligible to obtain the necessary U.S. Department of State authorizations due to ITAR regulations.

Nice to have

• A master's degree or PhD in wireless communication systems.
• Experience in the system design or implementation of MAC and PHY algorithms specifically for cellular systems.
• Previous experience troubleshooting issues within a large-scale production wireless network.
• Background in link-level simulations assessing physical layer decode performance across various channel models.
• Experience with system-level simulation of communication networks, particularly modeling inter-cell and inter-user interference.
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and data analysis.
• Exceptional analytical abilities and a solid foundation in engineering principles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment with changing requirements.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in MATLAB for algorithm development and simulation.
• Experience with Python for scripting and data analysis.
• Knowledge of C/C++ for algorithm implementation and performance optimization.

Practical notes

SpaceX provides a robust total rewards package that includes long-term incentives such as stock options and cash awards, as well as discretionary bonuses and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave. Additionally, employees enjoy various discounts and accrue three weeks of paid vacation, along with more than ten paid holidays each year, plus paid sick leave.

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.