Sr. ASIC DFT Engineer (Silicon)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 135,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

3 weeks of paid vacation

Discretionary bonuses

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is seeking a SR. ASIC DFT ENGINEER to develop next-generation ASICs for Starlink, enhancing global internet connectivity. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and at least 5 years of experience in semiconductor Design For Test (DFT) engineering.

You will implement DFT architectures, work with cross-disciplinary teams, and help maximize the capabilities of Starlink's network. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits are offered to support your growth and wellbeing.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in semiconductor Design For Test (DFT) engineering.
• Hands-on experience with ATE platforms like Teradyne or Advantest.
• Knowledge of industry standards for testability (IEEE 1500, 1687).

Responsibilities

• Implement and optimize DFT architectures using Siemens Tessent tools.
• Set up and run Automatic Test Pattern Generation (ATPG) tools.
• Develop test scripts and analyze data using programming languages.

Skills

DFT architectures optimization

Silicon debug

Excellent problem-solving skills

Collaboration with cross-functional teams

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering

Master’s or PhD in a relevant field

Tools

Siemens Tessent

Automated Test Equipment (ATE)

Job description

SpaceX

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.

SR. ASIC 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

• Implement and optimize DFT architectures, including scan insertion, compression/decompression logic, memory BIST, and logic BIST, leveraging Siemens Tessent tools
• Integration and verification of Design for Test (DFT) IPs and fabrics within Subsystems
• Set up and run Automatic Test Pattern Generation (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.
• Run and debug non‑timing and SDF annotated gate‑level simulations
• Create and validate DFT patterns for post‑silicon bringup and also help with ATE debug through all cycles of silicon characterization
• 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 physics
• 5+ years of experience in semiconductor Design For Test (DFT) engineering, post‑silicon validation, and/or production testing

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s or PhD in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or related engineering field
• Extensive experience in post‑silicon bringup, including silicon debug, failure analysis, and yield optimization on complex SoCs or ASICs
• Hands‑on experience with Automated Test Equipment (ATE) platforms (e.g., Teradyne, Advantest) for high‑volume manufacturing test development and debug
• Experience collaborating with cross‑functional teams (e.g., design, verification, and manufacturing) to ensure DFT features meet production requirements, utilizing Siemens Tessent workflows
• Knowledge of industry standards for testability (e.g., IEEE 1500, 1687) and experience with low‑power DFT techniques using Siemens Tessent
• Experience with In‑System Test (IST), boundary scan (IEEE 1149.1), functional testing in embedded systems, or board‑level diagnostics, preferably using Siemens Tessent tools
• Hands‑on experience with Tessent Streaming Scan Network
• Experience with cell‑aware fault models in ATPG
• Excellent problem‑solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex test failures and implement corrective actions
• Strong communication skills for documenting test strategies, reporting results, and presenting to stakeholders
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment, handling multiple projects and adapting to evolving technology nodes (e.g., 7nm and below)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay Range:
Level 1: $135,000 – $160,000
Level 2: $155,000 – $185,000

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 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.

• 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.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT

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.