Sr. RAN Software Engineer (Starlink Mobile)
About the role
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. Starlink Mobile was designed to connect the unconnected, with applications including connecting hikers in national parks, emergency responders, rural communities, remote sensors, and people in emergency situations.
As a Sr. RAN Software Engineer on the Starlink Mobile program, you will lead the validation and optimization of the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack. This role requires strong software engineering skills to build scalable test automation frameworks and work directly with other software developers to triage and resolve complex 4G/5G protocol stack software issues.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design, development, and maintenance of CI/CD test automation 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 resolve issues and drive feature improvements
- Build software tools and data pipelines to analyze RAN performance and optimize eNB/gNB parameters to improve network KPIs
- Manage and prioritize network issues while collaborating closely with development teams to drive resolution
- Troubleshoot and maintain RAN lab infrastructure in collaboration with partner teams
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline
- 5+ years of Python/C/C++ coding experience
- 5+ years of experience developing, executing, and managing automated LTE/5G-NR test cases (including test planning and results tracking)
Preferred Skills and Experience
- In-depth knowledge of 3GPP specifications and R17+ RAN features
- Experience with user equipment (UE) log analysis and associated software tools (QXDM/XCAL)
- Experience developing test automation frameworks or CI/CD pipelines
- Strong understanding of LTE and 5G-NR protocols with hands-on experience resolving software issues at the PHY, MAC, and RRC layers
- Experience supporting products through the full release cycle including commercial deployment
- Strong skills in debugging and performance optimization; exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Short and long-term disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- 3 weeks of paid vacation and 10 or more paid holidays per year
- Paid sick time (for employees in Washington State)
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan with stock discount
- Potential long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards
- Potential discretionary bonuses
- Company shuttles for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office (Monday to Friday)
- Various discounts and perks
Pay
Pay Range: Level 3: $165,000.00 - $270,000.00. Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C.1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C.1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.