Sr. RFIC Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Sr RFIC Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering) to develop cutting-edge RF/analog/mixed-signal ICs for Starlink and space applications. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to define specifications, simulate designs, and ensure reliable operation in challenging environments.

The role focuses on designing RFICs in SiGe or CMOS processes, validating prototypes, and supporting manufacturing and test activities to push the limits of microwave performance for global

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science.
• 5+ years of RF integrated circuit experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, simulate and model RF/analog/mixed-signal circuits and systems.
• Derive specifications for RFIC subsystems and circuits.
• Develop Analog/Mixed-Signal/RF/microwave circuits in SiGe or CMOS processes.
• Work with system architects, modem/DSP and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domains.
• Perform IC floor planning and layout.
• Model package and external parasitic components.
• Evaluate and characterize prototypes of the design.
• Characterize and analyze full radio performance.
• Assist in the development of automated test lab equipment for lab measurements.
• Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing and qualification of the RFIC components and systems.

Skills

RFIC design

Analog/mixed-signal IC design

Digital communication knowledge

IC floor planning

Education

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

Master's or PhD in EE/CE with RF emphasis

Tools

Spectre

ADS

HFSS

Momentum

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. RFIC DESIGN ENGINEER (RFIC 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 5M+ 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 RF/Analog IC engineer who will work alongside world‑class cross‑disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering). In this role, you will be developing cutting‑edge next‑generation RFICs 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. Join us to help deliver cutting‑edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.

Responsibilities

• Design, simulate and model RF/analog/mixed‑signal circuits and systems
• Derive specifications for the RFIC subsystems and circuits
• Develop Analog/Mixed‑Signal/RF/microwave circuits in SiGe or CMOS processes
• Work with system architects, modem/DSP and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domains
• Perform IC floor planning and layout
• Model package and external parasitic components
• Evaluate and characterize prototypes of the design
• Characterize and analyze full radio performance
• Assist in the development of automated test lab equipment for lab measurements
• Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing and qualification of the RFIC components and systems

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science
• 5+ years of RF integrated circuit experience

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering or computer engineering with an emphasis in RF/Analog/Mixed‑signal integrated circuit design
• Experience using simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS, HFSS or Momentum
• Circuit design skills, and experience performing analysis and simulation of both linear and non‑linear circuits such as phase‑locked loops, vector modulators/demodulators, oscillators, mixers, filters, low noise and power amplifiers
• Knowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, single and multi‑carrier techniques and modulation types such as QPSK, APSK and QAM
• Knowledge of RF transceiver architectures
• RF/microwave design in the Ku‑band, K‑band and Ka‑band frequency range
• Familiarity with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzers
• Experience characterizing radio performance in microwave frequencies

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones
• 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 Employment Opportunity 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.

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].