Sr. BAW Filter Design Engineer (Starlink/Akoustis)

InvestedintheMission; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Senior BAW Filter Design Engineer to lead the design and development of MEMS-based BAW filters for Starlink systems. You will model, simulate, and validate filters from concept to production, ensuring high performance and manufacturability.

The role requires strong EM simulation skills, hands-on testing experience, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver cutting-edge RF solutions for a global satellite network.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of RF filter design experience focused on BAW or SAW
• Experience with EM simulation tools (HFSS, CST, ADS, or COMSOL)
• Experience with RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, VNAs)

Responsibilities

• Design and develop 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 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
• Optimize filter performance for insertion loss, return loss, bandwidth, and out-of-band rejection within size and cost constraints
• Collaborate with process engineers, layout designers, and system architects for seamless integration
• Develop test plans, perform RF measurements, and validate filter performance using network and spectrum analyzers
• Create detailed design reports, simulation results, and technical documentation for reviews and handoff
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in BAW technology

Skills

RF design

Team collaboration

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering

Tools

HFSS

CST

ADS

COMSOL

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.

SR. 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
• 5+ years of experience in RF filter design with a focus on BAW or SAW
• 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 Affi ... or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].