Sr. Wireless Firmware Engineer

About the role

SpaceX is at the forefront of revolutionizing global connectivity through its Starlink Mobile network, which aims to deliver cellular services from space. In this position, you will be instrumental in developing advanced signal processing algorithms and high-performance software tailored for both satellites and ground stations. Your collaboration with systems and firmware teams will be crucial in enhancing the wireless physical layer, ensuring robust and efficient communication capabilities.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and implement physical layer algorithms specifically for satellite-based 4G/5G LTE/NR eNodeB and gNodeB systems.
• Write optimized signal processing code that operates efficiently on CPUs with limited computational resources.
• Conduct simulations and develop models to assess the performance of modems and the overall system.
• Create, maintain, and rigorously test the wireless PHY and MAC protocol layers to ensure reliability and efficiency.
• Diagnose and resolve performance-related issues throughout the wireless stack, enhancing overall system performance.
• Participate in design reviews and code assessments while contributing to the specifications for future hardware developments.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in wireless technology to inform ongoing development efforts.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related STEM discipline.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in one or more of the following areas: modem design, wireless systems engineering, digital signal processing (DSP), physical layer processing, or wireless signal processing.
• A minimum of 5 years of programming experience in C or C++.
• Strong analytical skills with a proven ability to troubleshoot complex systems.
• Experience in developing software for embedded systems or real-time applications.
• Familiarity with wireless communication standards and protocols.

Nice to have

• Understanding of 3GPP 4G/5G physical layer design principles or experience with OFDM waveforms, including 5G NTN, 802.11 WiFi, DVB-S2, DVB-C, or WiMAX.
• Knowledge of forward error correction techniques and their application in wireless systems.
• Experience with MAC layer L2 operations and how they interact with the physical layer.
• Skills in optimizing both fixed and floating-point signal processing algorithms for performance.
• Proficiency in Python programming, Linux command line usage, and version control systems like git.
• Background in software-defined radio technologies and their applications.
• Experience overseeing a product from conception through to commercial launch, ensuring all phases are executed effectively.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in C/C++ programming languages.
• Expertise in PHY/MAC layer development and signal processing techniques.
• Familiarity with 4G/5G LTE/NR technologies.
• Proficient in Python for scripting and automation tasks.
• Experience working in a Linux environment and using git for version control.

Practical notes

• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees to comply with ITAR regulations.
• Be prepared for the possibility of extended working hours and weekend commitments as project demands arise.
• The compensation package may include stock options, long-term cash incentives, and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits are offered, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, life insurance, disability coverage, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and more than ten paid holidays annually.
• Company-provided shuttles facilitate transportation between select locations in Seattle and the Redmond office, ensuring ease of commuting for employees.

Join SpaceX and be part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of technology and connectivity. Your expertise in wireless firmware engineering will contribute to groundbreaking advancements in satellite communications, making a significant impact on how the world connects.

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.