Antenna Software Engineer, Satellites; Starlink

Antenna Software Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA

Space

X 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 Space

X is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

Starlink is Space

X’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 beam former 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 10‑20 GHz.
• 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.

Pay range:

• Software Engineer/Level I: $122,500 – $145,000 per year.
• Software Engineer/Level II: $140,000 – $170,000 per year.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package  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, a 401(k) retirement plan, short‑ and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks.

You may accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year. Company shuttles are offered to employees for round‑trip travel from select Seattle locations to the Space

X Redmond office Monday through Friday.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (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.

Space

X is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Space

X 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.