Antenna Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation and holidays

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Company shuttles from Seattle to Redmond office

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is seeking an Antenna Engineer to work on the Starlink Mobile program. In this role, you will design and validate phased array antennas crucial for satellite-to-mobile communication.

The ideal candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least two years of experience in RF technologies. Strong skills in electromagnetic simulation tools and programming languages are preferred. This position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits in Redmond, Washington.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of research/development experience in RF and antennas.
• 1+ year experience using 3D electromagnetic simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Design advanced antenna and feed systems.
• Develop software for digital beamforming systems.
• Perform validation testing of prototype and production designs.
• Analyze RF performance data and improve systems.

Skills

RF concepts

3D electromagnetic simulation tools

Programming in Python, C#, C++, MATLAB

Antenna measurement techniques

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s or PhD in electrical engineering

Tools

CST

HFSS

EMPro

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is 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.

ANTENNA ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)

SpaceX is developing a satellite‑to‑mobile network to deliver cellular connectivity worldwide through the Starlink constellation. We partner with mobile network operators globally to provide direct‑to‑cell service, extending coverage to billions of existing cellular devices. The Starlink Mobile program seeks to connect the unconnected, greatly expanding our mission.

As an antenna engineer on the Starlink Mobile program, you will design, verify, and validate the phased array antennas that enable satellite‑to‑mobile communication. You will collaborate with senior leadership, electrical, silicon, software, mechanical, and manufacturing teams to guide the project from conceptual design to full‑scale production.

Responsibilities

• Design advanced antenna and feed systems for next‑generation phased array antennas and test systems.
• Fabricate and characterize prototypes of antennas, feed systems, and radio frequency (RF) front ends.
• Develop software and test digital beamforming systems to demonstrate full phased array functionality.
• Provide phased array expertise to set specifications and debug problems covering satellite phased array and ground test products.
• Perform validation testing of prototype and production designs.
• Contribute to integration of antennas into spacecraft and other systems.
• Analyze field operational RF performance data and investigate methods to improve performance and debug issues.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 2+ years of research or development experience in RF and antennas (internship and thesis work acceptable).
• 1+ year experience using a 3D electromagnetic simulation tool: CST, HFSS, FEKO, EMPro, TICRA, or XFDTD.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree or PhD in electrical engineering with RF or antenna research experience.
• Strong knowledge of RF concepts such as impedance matching, linear and aperture antennas, smith chart, power‑handling metrics (IIP2, IMD), microwave network analysis, and RF filter design.
• Programming experience in Python, C#, C++, or MATLAB.
• Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and tools such as anechoic/reverb chambers and near‑field EM measurements.
• Experience with RF circuit simulation tools: AWR, ADS, Genesys.
• Proficiency in antenna prototyping techniques.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, autonomously driven, demanding environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission‑critical deadlines.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range:

Level 1: $125,000.00 – $150,000.00
Level 2: $145,000.00 – $175,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis based on job‑related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is part of a total rewards package that may include long‑term incentives, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits include medical, vision, dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, short‑ and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and other discounts and perks. Paid vacation of 3 weeks and 10 or more paid holidays per year are available. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered for round‑trip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

Equal Opportunity Employer

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process, should reach out to [e-mail].