Embedded Software Engineer, Satellite Antenna (Starlink)

Starlink is SpaceX’s 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), we’ve 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, you’ll own software for bring-up, characterization, and operation of advanced phased array systems. You’ll 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 – we’re looking for ambitious engineers who thrive when they’re diving deep on challenging, interdisciplinary problems.

• →Develop embedded software for custom modem and beamformer silicon ASICs that form the foundation of Starlink’s 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

• Bachelor’s 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)

• 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

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

• 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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com.