Antenna Software Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

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 ofenabling human life on Mars.

ANTENNA SOFTWARE ENGINEER SATELLITES (STARLINK)

Starlink is SpaceXs unprecedented satellite constellation designed to deliver high-speed broadband internet to underserved and remote areas around the world. By deploying thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) weve created a global network that bridges the digital divide enabling reliable connectivity for homes business vessels aircraft and more.

As a member of the Antenna Software team youll own software for bring-up characterization and operation of advanced phased array systems. Youll drive features at every layer of the stack from embedded software running on microcontrollers in custom beamforming ASICs to characterizing antennas in anechoic chambers to defining the RF test required to produce hundreds of phased arrays per month to building tools to analyze the on-orbit performance of our fleet of thousands of satellites serving millions of users.

Prior RF experience is not a requirement to be successful here were looking for ambitious engineers who thrive when theyre diving deep on challenging interdisciplinary problems.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop embedded software for custom modem and beamformer silicon ASICs that form the foundation of Starlinks phased array antennas
• Write flight-critical software to ensure intended operation of the antenna throughout the lifecycle of the satellite
• Collaborate with phased array antenna engineers to build and implement new techniques to measure antennas as part of our CI/CD process
• Analyze on-orbit performance data and investigate methods to improve performance and debug issues
• Drive production RF test features to verify hardware in the factory while maintaining a rapid rate of production
• Design and build automated measurement systems to characterize phased arrays radiating at 10-20GHz
• Provide software engineering expertise and mission-critical support to the broader Payload Engineering organization

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in computer science computer engineering or electrical engineering
• 1 years of programming experience in embedded C or C (internships collegiate clubs and project work can apply)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience and understanding of RF fundamentals and/or communications theory
• Familiarity with radio-related lab measurement equipment and techniques such as spectrum analyzers network analyzers and signal generators.
• Experience with phased array antenna systems
• Ability to work in a fast-paced autonomously driven and demanding start-up atmosphere
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlines

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $122500.00 - $145000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $140000.00 - $170000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills education and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock stock options or long-term cash awards as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical vision and dental coverage access to a 401(k)-retirement plan short & long-term disability insurance life insurance paid parental leave and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

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 SpaceXs Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to.