Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering)

SpaceX; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Principal DFT Engineer for its Austin location. The role involves leading the implementation and optimization of DFT architectures for upcoming ASICs, ultimately enhancing Starlink systems. Candidates should have a robust background, with 10+ years in ASIC design and DFT setup, including experience in automation and debugging.

Through collaborative work with cross-disciplinary teams, you will contribute to groundbreaking connectivity solutions. SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and innovation.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience working with ASICs.
• 10+ years of experience in scan insertion and DFT integration.
• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead implementation and optimization of DFT architectures.
• Own ATPG tools and methodologies.
• Develop test scripts and automate processes.

Skills

ASIC design expertise

DFT setup and validation

Programming in Perl/Python/Tcl/C++

Leadership in SOC DFT execution

Debugging RTL connectivity issues

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer science

Tools

Siemens Tessent

RTL tools

ATE testers

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.

PRINCIPAL DFT ENGINEER (SILICON ENGINEERING)

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious engineer who will work alongside world‑class cross‑disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering and ASIC implementation). In this role, you will be developing next‑generation ASICs for deployment in space and ground infrastructures around the globe. These chips are enabling connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable. Your efforts will help deliver cutting‑edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead implementation and optimization of DFT architectures, including scan insertion, compression/decompression logic, memory BIST, and logic BIST, leveraging Siemens Tessent tools for RTL and gate netlist DFT implementation
• Own ATPG tools and methodologies, including generating patterns for stuck‑at, transition, and path delay fault models, while focusing on pattern compression, diagnosis, and hierarchical test flows. Provide post‑silicon testing and validation support
• Responsible for evaluating design readiness for scan insertion through RTL and physical design Scan Design Rule Check (DRC) tools
• Integration and verification of Design for Test (DFT) fabrics and IP within Subsystems
• Run and debug non‑timing and SDF annotated gate level simulations
• Develop test scripts, automate processes, and analyze data using programming languages such as Perl, Python, Tcl, or C+

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer science
• 10+ years of experience working with ASICs
• 10+ years of experience in scan insertion and DFT setup, integration and validation

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Leadership experience driving SOC DFT execution from concept through tapeout and product deployment
• RTL experience to understand, trace and debug RTL connectivity issues as they pertain to DFT
• Ability to solve complex problems including clock domain crossings and power optimization
• Experience with UPF (Unified Power Format), formal verification, and DRC rule checking experience
• Familiar with advanced silicon process and technology nodes for high speed and low power consumption
• Strong implementation or integration of design blocks using Verilog/SystemVerilog
• Experience working with ATE testers and test teams

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability 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.

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].