Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer; RFIC Engineering

Redmond, WA

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.

This position is part of the Starlink team, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of 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 are seeking a motivated and technically excellent Sr. RF Front-End Module Design Engineer to develop cutting‑edge RF modules for deployment into the Starlink Mobile network. The role includes specification, material‑selection, design, simulation, integration, fabrication, production, measurement, debugging, and optimization of compact, multi‑chip modules (MCMs) containing custom RF front‑end components.

• Design and develop RF front‑end MCMs for 5G , 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

• 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

• 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
• 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 generators, network analyzers
• Experience characterizing radio performance for cellular and Wi‑Fi systems
• Python programming experience for test automation

• Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to meet critical project milestones
• Application must satisfy U.S. export‑control regulations. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Pay range: $160,000 – $225,000 per year for a Senior RFIC Design Engineer.

Base salary is one part of the total rewards package and may vary based on knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Eligible employees may receive long‑term incentives, company stock or options, discretionary bonuses, and a discounted employee stock purchase plan. Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k)…