Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer (Starlink)

As a Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer at SpaceX, you will play a critical role in the design, implementation, and verification of electrical hardware for satellites and ground communication systems. Your primary responsibilities will include simulating and modeling communication systems, working closely with a multidisciplinary team, and characterizing and analyzing system performance to support architectural definition.

To qualify for the Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer role at SpaceX, you should have a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or a related field, along with 5+ years of research or industry experience in RF/microwave circuit design. Familiarity with 3D EM simulation tools is also essential.

Preferred skills for the Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer position at SpaceX include a Master's degree focused on RF/microwave circuits, experience with the design of various linear and non-linear circuits, and a strong understanding of RF passive components. You should also be experienced in using tools like ADS and have programming proficiency in Python, Matlab, or C++.

SpaceX provides competitive compensation for the Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer role, with a pay range of $160,000.00 - $220,000.00 per year. Additionally, you’ll have access to medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid parental leave, vacation days, and various long-term incentives, among other perks.

No, there is no age limit for applying to the Sr. RF/Microwave Engineer position at SpaceX. The company adheres to a policy of equal opportunity employment, ensuring that all applicants are evaluated solely based on merit, competence, and qualifications.

To answer this question effectively, detail specific projects where you have designed RF/microwave circuits. Discuss the types of circuits you've worked on, any tools you've used, and the outcomes of your designs. Highlight your problem-solving skills and the impact of your work on overall project goals.

Be prepared to list the specific simulation tools you’ve used, such as CST, HFSS, or AWR. Provide examples of how you’ve used these tools in past projects, emphasizing your proficiency and any successful results that arose from your simulations.

Discuss your approach to assessing feasibility by explaining the criteria you evaluate, such as cost, technology constraints, and performance requirements. This is an opportunity to showcase your analytical skills and decision-making process.

Provide insights into the methods you employ to analyze and characterize system performance, such as testing procedures or the use of measurement tools like spectrum analyzers. Highlight any specific metrics you focus on, like bit error rates or signal-to-noise ratios.

Explain your background in collaborating with software engineers or team members responsible for both hardware and software domains. Illustrate the importance of communication and integration between these components in creating efficient systems.

Choose a specific challenge that demonstrates your problem-solving skills. Discuss the issue, your analysis of the situation, and the steps you took to overcome it, emphasizing any teamwork or innovative solutions employed.

Discuss your methods for continuous learning, whether through conferences, journals, workshops, or online courses. Highlight any areas of RF technology you’re particularly excited about and how you apply this knowledge to your work.

Talk about your process for verifying and validating designs and simulations. Mention how you conduct tests, peer reviews, and incorporate feedback to enhance accuracy in your RF/microwave circuit developments.

Use a specific example from your past experience. Describe your role, the contributions you made, and the overall success of the project due to your involvement, illustrating your teamwork skills.

Indicate the specific components you have hands-on experience with, such as power amplifiers, filters, or antennas. Explain why you feel comfortable with these components based on your knowledge, past projects, or training.