RAN Validation Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

SpaceX; Union Hill-Novelty Hill (WA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation and holidays

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a RAN Validation Engineer to validate and optimize the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack. This role involves developing automated test cases, performing lab and field testing, and analyzing network performance. The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field and strong experience in LTE and 5G protocols.

Additional responsibilities include troubleshooting, managing network issues, and collaborating with developers. The compensation range is between $125,000 and $175,000 annually, depending on experience.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline required.
• Strong understanding of LTE and 5G-NR protocols.
• Experience with RAN parameter configuration and optimization.

Responsibilities

• Develop automated test cases for RAN software protocol stack.
• Analyze and optimize network performance.
• Collaborate with developers to resolve complex issues.

Skills

Understanding of LTE and 5G-NR protocols

Debugging experience at PHY, MAC, RRC layers

RAN parameter configuration and optimization

Python for test automation and data analysis

UE log analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM discipline

Tools

QXDM

XCAL

Testbed setup

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.

RAN VALIDATION ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)

SpaceX 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.

StarlinkMobile 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 will be responsible for validating and optimizing the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack. This includes developing automated test cases for feature validation, performing lab and field testing, analyzing and optimizing network performance, and collaborating with developers to resolve complex issues.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and maintain automated test cases and frameworks for eNB/gNB feature validation, including functional, performance, interoperability, and regression testing.
• Analyze UE and eNB/gNB logs to debug and root‑cause RAN issues, and collaborate with developers to drive fixes.
• Lead UE log collection and field testing to support eNB/gNB feature development.
• Build software tools and database queries to analyze RAN performance and tune eNB/gNB parameters to optimize KPIs.
• Manage and prioritize network issues and work with developers to resolve them.
• Troubleshoot and maintain RAN lab infrastructure in collaboration with partner teams.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline.
• Strong understanding of LTE and 5G‑NR protocols with hands‑on experience debugging issues at the PHY, MAC, and RRC layers.
• Experience with RAN parameter configuration, optimization, and performance analysis.
• Experience developing, executing, and managing LTE/5G‑NR test cases (including test planning and results tracking).
• Experience with UE log analysis and associated software tools (QXDM/XCAL).
• Experience with RAN lab equipment, including testbed setup and RF troubleshooting.
• Strong proficiency in Python for test automation and data analysis, along with experience in Linux and code repositories (Git).

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• 2+ years of experience with eNB/gNB and/or modem validation.
• 2+ years of lab and/or field experience in new product introduction or product certification.
• 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

• Communications integration Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00 per year.
• Communications Integration Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year.

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 SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, 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 accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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].