RAN Validation Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

SpaceX; Iowa (LA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Bonuses

Medical vision dental

401(k)

Parental leave

Vacation time

Holidays

Shuttle Seattle-Redmond

Job summary

United States Digital Space LLC is seeking a RAN Validation Engineer for the Starlink Mobile program to validate and optimize the 4G/5G RAN stack, develop automated test cases, and analyze network performance. You will also help build tools to measure KPIs and drive fixes with the development teams.

In this role you will lead field tests, collect logs, and work across lab and live environments to ensure robust feature validation for LTE/5G-NR.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in STEM or related field required.
• Experience with RAN parameter configuration, optimization, and performance analysis.
• Experience with Python for test automation and data analysis, plus Linux and Git.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automated test cases and frameworks for eNB/gNB feature validation (4G/5G-NR).
• Analyze UE and eNB logs to debug and root-cause RAN issues with developers.
• Lead UE log collection and field testing to support feature development.
• Build software tools and queries to analyze RAN performance and optimize KPIs.
• Manage and prioritize network issues and coordinate with developers.
• Troubleshoot and maintain RAN lab infrastructure with partner teams.

Skills

RAN validation

Python

Linux

Git

LTE/5G-NR

Debugging

Performance optimization

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Tools

QXDM

XCAL

RAN lab equipment

Testbed setup

Job description

the company 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 the company is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal ofenabling human life on Mars.

RAN VALIDATION ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)

the company is developing a satellite-to-mobile network to deliver ubiquitous cellular connectivity worldwide through the Starlink constellation. We are partnering with mobile network operators globally to provide direct-to-cell service, extending coverage to billions of existing cellular devices.Starlink Mobile was designed to connect the unconnected, and this new product will greatly expand that mission by extending coverage to billions of existing cellular devices. Applications include connecting hikers in national parks, emergency responders, rural communities, remote sensors, and people in emergency situations.

As a RAN Validation Engineer on the Starlink Mobile program, you willbe responsible forvalidatingandoptimizingthe 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack. This includes developing automated test cases for feature validation, performing lab and field testing,analyzingand optimizing network performance, and collaborating with developers to resolve complex issues.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop andmaintainautomated test cases and frameworks foreNB/gNBfeature validation, including functional, performance, interoperability, and regression testing
• Analyze UE andeNB/gNBlogs to debug and root-cause RAN issues, and collaborate with developers to drive fixes
• Lead UE log collection and field testing to supporteNB/gNBfeaturedevelopment
• Build software tools and database queries to analyze RAN performance and tuneeNB/gNBparameters to optimize KPIs
• Manage and prioritize network issues and work with developers to resolve them
• Troubleshoot andmaintainRAN lab infrastructure in collaboration with partner teams

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline
• Experience with RAN parameter configuration, optimization, and performance analysis
• Experience with Python for test automation and data analysis, along with experience in Linux and code repositories (Git)
• Experience developing, executing, and managing LTE/5G-NR test cases (including test planning and results tracking)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 2+ years of experience witheNB/gNBand/or modem validation
• 2+ years of lab and/or field experience in new product introduction or product certification
• Strong understanding of LTE and 5G-NR protocols with hands‑on experience debugging issues at the PHY, MAC, and RRC layers
• Experience with UE log analysis and associated software tools(QXDM/XCAL)
• Experience with RAN lab equipment, including testbed setup and RF troubleshooting
• In‑depth knowledge of 3GPP specifications and R17+ RAN features
• Experience with RAN lab equipment, including testbed setup and RF troubleshooting
• Strong skills in debugging and performance optimization; exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:

Level 1: $125,000.00 - $165,000.00Level 2: $145,000.00 - $200,000.00

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

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at the company. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the the company Redmond office Monday to Friday.

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.

the company is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with the company 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 the company’s Affniative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out [e-mail].