Sr. MMIC Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering) Verified today
Sr. MMIC Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)
SpaceX is deploying Starlink, the world's largest satellite constellation, delivering fast, reliable broadband to millions of users globally. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system: thousands of satellites, gateways, consumer receivers, and the software that integrates them.
We are seeking a motivated MMIC Design Engineer to develop cutting-edge next-generation MMICs for deployment in space and ground infrastructures. You will work with world-class cross-disciplinary teams in systems, firmware, architecture, design, and validation to deliver solutions that expand Starlink's performance and global reach.
Responsibilities
- Derive hardware specifications for RF systems and MMIC blocks
- Develop MMIC products from initial specification to mass production, ensuring full compatibility across system implementations
- Simulate and model MMIC front-end circuits (power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, switches) at circuit and electromagnetic levels, working with system architects, modem/DSP, and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software
- Determine packaging and implementation approaches for MMICs; collaborate with RF engineers and PCB designers on packages and modules
- Evaluate, characterize, and analyze full performance of MMIC prototypes
- Assist in developing automated test equipment for lab measurements
- Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing of MMIC components and RF systems
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
- 5+ years of research and/or industry experience in RF/microwave circuit design
- Experience with GaAs and/or GaN MMIC design of linear and non-linear circuits (power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers, filters, PLLs), including full circuit design and layout
Preferred Skills and Experience
- MS or PhD in an engineering discipline with emphasis in MMIC design, RF/microwave circuits, and/or electromagnetic theory
- Deep understanding of RF front-end block theory and design, S-band to E-band frequency ranges
- RF/microwave design tool experience: ADS, HFSS, AWR, or similar
- RF/microwave design in Ku, Ka, V, and E-band frequency ranges
- Familiarity with radio test equipment: spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, network analyzers, load pull, and probe stations at millimeter-wave frequencies
- Knowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, single and multi-carrier techniques, modulation types (QPSK, APSK, QAM)
- Understanding of electromagnetic propagation and antenna systems
- Schematic and layout design using Altium Designer or other PCB design tools
- Experience with Matlab, Python, C++, or equivalent tools for modeling, analyzing, and automating RF systems
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones
Compensation and Benefits
Pay Range (Level 3): $165,000-$270,000 annually. Actual level and base salary determined case-by-case based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Total rewards include long-term incentives (company stock or long-term cash awards), discretionary bonuses, and Employee Stock Purchase Plan eligibility. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; 3 weeks paid vacation; 10+ paid holidays annually. Washington State employees accrue paid sick time per state and federal law. Company shuttle service available for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to Redmond office, Monday to Friday.
ITAR Requirements
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 required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.