Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

SpaceX is developing Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system and largest satellite constellation, to provide fast, reliable internet globally. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system, including thousands of satellites and consumer receivers. We are seeking a motivated and technically excellent Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer to develop cutting-edge RF modules for the Starlink Mobile network.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop RF front-end MCMs for 5G NR, LTE, and Wi-Fi applications
• Integrate RFICs (PAs, LNAs, switches), power management ICs, BAW/SAW filters, printed passives, and SMDs into compact MCMs
• Design custom passives (inductors, couplers, etc.) printed into module laminates
• Specify RFIC and BAW filter performances; define pin-to-pin lineups, linearity performances, and coupling specifications of RF modules
• Work closely with BAW filter designers, RFIC designers, and package/layout engineers in module floor-planning
• Perform detailed circuit and EM simulations, and co-simulation of the full module with sub-components
• Conduct lab bring-up, characterization, and debugging of module prototypes; drive learnings into improving and optimizing subsequent prototype iterations
• Manage laminate and assembly suppliers
• Develop ATE test plans and coordinate with OSAT teams on implementation
• Support the integration of RF modules into production PCBAs
• Perform yield analysis and implement design improvements for high-volume production

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science
• 5+ years of research and/or industry experience in RF/Microwave engineering or RFIC engineering
• Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to meet critical project milestones
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, 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

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering discipline with emphasis in RF/microwave circuits/systems, BAW/SAW resonators, advanced semiconductor packaging, or electromagnetic theory
• Experience in designing multi-chip RF modules for cellular or Wi-Fi applications
• Familiar with MCM substrate/packaging technologies (e.g. double-sided BGA), and manufacturing processes
• BAW filter design experience
• Thorough understanding of RF passive components and EM principles
• Experience in the design of linear and non-linear circuits such as power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers, filters and PLLs
• Module/RF/microwave design using ADS, HFSS, AWR (or similar tools)
• Experience in MATLAB, Python or equivalent tools for modeling and analyzing RF systems
• Familiar with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzers
• Experience characterizing radio performance for cellular and Wi-Fi systems
• Python programming experience for test automation

Pay

Pay range: $170,000 - $235,000 per year. Your actual level and base salary will be determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Short & long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with stock discounts
• Long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
• Potential discretionary bonuses
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 10 or more paid holidays per year
• 5 days of sick leave per year (exempt employees)
• Various discounts and perks