Sr. Modem / DSP Communication Systems Engineer (Silicon Engineering)

SR. MODEM / DSP COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS ENGINEER (SILICON 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 are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe. 

The Starlink modem team is seeking motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious engineers who can work with world-class cross-disciplinary teams (firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering, ASIC implementation). In this role, you will develop system algorithms and silicon solutions for cutting-edge communication systems for deployment in space and ground infrastructures. These systems are enabling connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable. Your efforts will help deliver cutting-edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.     

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• System-level and link-level design in support of a robust satellite broadband communication system 
• Work in close collaboration with ASIC/FPGA, RF/antenna, and software engineers to design and validate silicon-based systems 
• Develop floating-point and fixed-point models and run simulations to analyze and validate overall system performance, including modem performance 
• Support IC designers with bit-accurate and cycle-accurate vector generation for silicon verification 
• Generate spacecraft and consumer equipment system specifications, requirements, and test procedures 
• Support silicon bring up and validation by developing and implementing system test plans 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, physics, computer engineering or electrical engineering
• 5+ years of experience in system-level modeling and/or digital signal processing

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced degree in electrical engineering with emphasis in communication systems and/or digital signal processing 8+ years of professional experience in system-level modeling
• Professional experience in working on aspects of multiple access schemes such as TDMA, CDMA and OFDMA
• Professional experience in design and verification of high data rate wireless modems
• Expertise in MATLAB, C/C++, and/or Python
• Expertise in wireless communication standards, such as 5GNR, LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc
• Expertise in designing and implementing system-level procedures and algorithms
• Expertise in building and using system-level simulators and performance analysis
• Expertise in various multiple access schemes including downlink and uplink scheduler designs and tradeoffs
• Understanding of system link budgets and analysis related to communication systems
• Understanding of modem designs, link-level algorithms and hardware architectures
• Understanding of ASIC and FPGA development concepts, methodologies, and procedures
• Experience working in the lab and using lab equipment
• Strong interpersonal/written/verbal communication skills and experience with cross-functional collaboration
• Strong teamwork skills combined with ability to work autonomously as an individual contributor
• High level of self-motivation and desire to be challenged and learn new skills
• Strong problem solving skills with high attention to detail
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with changing needs and requirements
• Ability to meet tough goals under high pressure and manage time effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Extended hours and weekend work may be required to support critical project and mission milestones

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:    
Pay range:    
DSP Systems Engineer/Senior: $160,000.00 - $220,000.00/per year    
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, stock options, 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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.