BAW Filter Design Engineer (Starlink/Akoustis)

SpaceX; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX in Bastrop, Texas seeks a BAW Filter Design Engineer (Starlink/Akoustis) to design and develop MEMS-based BAW filters from concept to production, combining RF front‑end design with testing and integration across RF modules.

Responsibilities include EM simulations (HFSS/CST/ADS/COMSOL), design of filter layouts, optimizing insertion and return loss, and close collaboration with process engineers to deliver reliable high‑volume components for SpaceX Starlink.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field.
• 1+ years of RF/antenna or communications experience (internships ok).
• Experience with EM simulation tools (HFSS/CST/ADS/COMSOL).
• Experience with radio test equipment (spectrum/network analyzers).

Responsibilities

• Design and develop BAW filters from concept to production, including specs, testing, and optimization.
• Run advanced EM simulations to model performance and manufacturability.
• Design RF modules with filters, layouts, packaging, and integration with RF components.
• Optimize insertion loss, return loss, bandwidth, and out-of-band rejection within size/cost constraints.
• Collaborate with process engineers and system architects for seamless integration.
• Develop test plans, perform RF measurements, and document results.

Skills

RF engineering

Antenna knowledge

EM simulation

S-parameters

Python scripting

Education

Bachelor in Electrical Engineering

Tools

HFSS

CST

ADS

COMSOL

Vector network analyzer

Job description

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.

BAW FILTER DESIGN ENGINEER (STARLINK/AKOUSTIS)

Akoustis is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX, providing industry leading RF filters using patented XBAW technology to help drive the mission of making human life multi-planetary and connecting the world through Starlink. We design, build, launch, and operate the world's largest constellation of satellites, enabling us to operate a global internet network unbounded by traditional ground infrastructure limitations. The root of SpaceX’s success so far lies in our mission to keep all engineering and production in-house, which enables a tight feedback loop, nimble decision-making, and speedy deliverables. With millions of daily users worldwide already online, Starlink is truly a game-changer and levels the playing field for those who were previously unconnected.

XBAW technology utilizes MEMS-based thin film transfer process, enabling a broad range of piezoelectric material synthesis and compositions tailored for specific application needs with enhanced material properties and an optimized resonator performance, including a superior figure of merit from coupling and Q factor.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for designing and developing BAW filters from concept to production, including specification definition, simulation, characterization, front-end and back-end testing, architecture design, and performance optimization
• Perform advanced EM simulations using tools such as HFSS, ADS, or COMSOL to model BAW filter performance, optimize designs, and ensure manufacturability
• Design RF modules integrating BAW filters, including layout, packaging, and integration with other RF components such as amplifiers, switches, and antennas
• Optimize filter performance for key metrics such as insertion loss, return loss, bandwidth, and out-of-band rejection, while meeting size and cost constraints
• Work closely with process engineers, layout designers, and system architects to ensure seamless integration of BAW filters into larger RF systems
• Develop test plans, perform RF measurements, and validate filter performance using tools like network analyzers and spectrum analyzers
• Create detailed design reports, simulation results, and technical documentation to support design reviews and production handoff
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in BAW technology, contributing to the development of next‑generation RF solutions

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with RF, antenna, or communication systems (internship and extracurricular experience is applicable)
• Experience in EM simulation tools (e.g. HFSS, CST, ADS, or COMSOL)
• Experience with radio test and measurement equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzers

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in electrical engineering with emphasis in RF/antenna engineering
• Experience with 5G, Wi‑Fi, or IoT RF front‑end module design
• Familiarity with MEMS fabrication processes for BAW filters
• Knowledge of mixed‑signal design and co‑simulation with analog/digital circuits
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for automation of simulation and testing workflows

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones

Itar Requirements

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C.
• 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C.
• 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX 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 applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].