Job Description
Senior RF silicon software engineers at SpaceX bring new chips to life for Starlink constellations, powering broadband internet via satellites and user terminals. This work supports reliable communication systems across terrestrial and space elements, solving challenges in wireless digital setups with potential disruptions. Engineers use C++, Python, and FPGA emulators to build driver libraries and modular software for low-level control.
SpaceX pursues human Mars habitation, deploying Starlink as the world's largest satellite network with manufacturing in California and global launches. The company emphasizes extreme ownership across team members, from chip design to on-orbit monitoring. Headquarters in Hawthorne supports thousands of employees worldwide.
Tasks include powering chips first, designing reusable drivers, running test platforms with HIL simulations, and integrating software into satellite and terminal codebases. Colleagues span cross-functional teams like phased-arrays. Tools include SQL for metrics and Tableau. A constraint involves extended hours and weekends for critical milestones, with shifts as needed.
Compensation ranges from $160,000 to $220,000 annually as Senior level. Location is SpaceX facilities. Benefits consist of medical, dental, vision, 401(k), short and long-term disability, life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks vacation, 10+ holidays, stock purchase plans, and discounts. Exempt employees have 5 days sick leave.
Engineers need bachelor's in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or science, plus 5+ years in C++, C, or Python. Preferred skills include real-world software experience, RF knowledge, debugging, unit testing, and strong communication.
Additional duties encompass firmware validation on hardware, supporting production software teams, and ensuring performance via timing checks.
Responsibilities
- Bring up new RF silicon chips first time
- Design reusable software driver libraries for control with attention to timing and performance
- Build test platforms using hardware-in-the-loop or FPGA emulators
- Validate silicon drivers on physical hardware
- Support software integration into satellite phased-arrays and user terminal teams
Requirements
- Bachelor’s in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science
- 5+ years of professional development in C, C++, or Python
- Preferred: Experience developing software for real-world applications
- Solid engineering fundamentals in electronics, math, physics, and RF communication
- Strong debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing skills
- Creative problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
- Ability to work in dynamic environments with changing requirements