Yield Engineer, RF Final Test Integration (Starlink/Akoustis)

SpaceX; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Yield Engineer to join the RF device manufacturing team supporting Akoustis integration with Starlink. You will correlate RF final test results with wafer-level performance to identify root causes of yield loss and drive process improvements across probe and final test operations.

The ideal candidate has RF test development, yield analysis, and SPC/DOE expertise in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment, with a focus on reliable test solutions and cross-functional

Qualifications

• Requires RF testing, yield engineering, or semiconductor manufacturing experience (internship or professional).
• Experience with data analysis and root-cause analysis.
• Knowledge of RF BAW filter technologies and test challenges is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement RF test cases and calibration procedures for BAW filter devices from 2 GHz to >10 GHz.
• Link wafer probe data to final RF test to identify yield detractors.
• Use SPC/DOE to monitor and improve yield across the manufacturing flow.
• Create and maintain CoO and risk models to evaluate probe test strategies.
• Sustain and optimize workflow in a high-mix RF test center; improve cycle time and cost.
• Collaborate with design teams on DFM and yield optimization opportunities.
• Lead test operators; ensure proper execution of test plans and clean workflows.
• Support installation and qualification of new test tools and enhancements.
• Work with operation teams and vendors to resolve equipment issues.
• Create SOPs and test documentation.

Skills

RF testing

Yield engineering

Semiconductor manufacturing

SPC

DOE

Python

LabVIEW

MATLAB

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, materials science, or STEM

Tools

Automated probe stations

VNAs

RF measurement tools

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.

YIELD ENGINEER, RF FINAL TEST INTEGRATION (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.

We are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Yield Engineer to join our RF device manufacturing team. This role focuses on correlating RF final test results with front-end wafer-level performance to identify and eliminate root causes of yield loss. You will be responsible for developing and implementing RF test solutions, managing test workflows, and driving process improvements across wafer probe and final test operations. The ideal candidate brings experience in RF test development, yield analysis, and statistical process control, with a passion for solving complex yield issues in a fast-paced, high-mix production.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement RF test cases and calibration procedures for BAW filter devices operating in the 2 GHz to >10 GHz range
• Establish strong linkages between wafer probe data and final RF test performance, driving root cause analysis of yield detractors
• Use statistical tools such as SPC and DOE to monitor, control, and improve yield across the manufacturing flow
• Develop and maintain Cost of Ownership (CoO) and risk models to evaluate probe test strategies and ensure effective test coverage
• Sustain and optimize workflow and throughput in a high-mix RF test work center, driving continuous improvements in cycle time and cost
• Collaborate with design teams to provide feedback on DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and yield optimization opportunities
• Lead and mentor test operators, ensuring proper execution of test plans and maintenance of clean, organized workflows
• Support installation and qualification of new test tools, including both capability enhancements and capacity expansions
• Work closely with operation team and tool vendors to resolve equipment and process-related issues
• Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), engineering instructions, and test documentation

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, materials science, or other STEM discipline
• 1+ years of experience in RF testing, yield engineering, or semiconductor manufacturing(internship or professional)

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in RF test development or semiconductor yield engineering
• Working knowledge of RF measurement principles, including S-parameters, insertion loss, return loss, and calibration
• Familiarity with RF BAW filter technology and associated test challenges
• Experience using automated probe stations, VNAs, and RF measurement tools
• Strong analytical skills with demonstrated ability to perform data analysis, root cause analysis, and yield correlation
• Proficiency in Statistical Process Control (SPC), DOE, and related quality improvement methodologies
• Familiarity with scripting and automation (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB) for test or data analysis is a plus
• Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a high-mix, fast-paced production environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for collaboration across engineering, operations, and design teams

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones
• Ability to travel up to 10% domestically and internationally for supplier and manufacturing support
• Ability to perform light physical tasks (lifting up to 25 lbs, handling packaging samples)

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 Affimative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].