RFIC Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

SpaceX· Irvine, CA· RFIC Engineering

Posted 2026-10-30

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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.

RFIC DESIGN ENGINEER (RFIC ENGINEERING)

At SpaceX we’re leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, 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’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious RF/Analog IC engineer who will work alongside world-class cross-disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering). In this role, you will be developing cutting-edge next-generation RFICs for deployment in space and ground infrastructures around the globe. These chips are enabling connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable. Join us to help deliver cutting-edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design, simulate and model RF/analog/mixed-signal circuits and systems
Derive specifications for the RFIC subsystems and circuits
Develop Analog/Mixed-Signal/RF/microwave circuits in SiGe or CMOS processes
Work with system architects, modem/DSP and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domains
Perform IC floor planning and layout
Model package and external parasitic components
Evaluate and characterize prototypes of the design
Characterize and analyze full radio performance
Assist in the development of automated test lab equipment for lab measurements
Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing and qualification of the RFIC components and systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science
2+ years of RF integrated circuit experience

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering or computer engineering with an emphasis in RF/Analog/Mixed-signal integrated circuit design
Experience using simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS, HFSS or Momentum
Circuit design skills, and experience performing analysis and simulation of both linear and non-linear circuits such as phase-locked loops, vector modulators/demodulators, oscillators, mixers, filters, low noise and power amplifiers
Knowledge of digital communication systems, spread spectrum, single and multi-carrier techniques and modulation types such as QPSK, APSK and QAM
Knowledge of RF transceiver architectures
RF/microwave design in the Ku-band, K-band and Ka-band frequency range
Familiarity with radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generator, network analyzers
Experience characterizing radio performance in microwave frequencies

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Level 1: $125,000.00 - $160,000.00
Level 2: $145,000.00 - $195,000.00

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 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 and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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 SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [email protected].

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