Wireless Systems Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

About the role

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

WIRELESS SYSTEMS ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)

As a Wireless Systems Engineer for Starlink Mobile you will design and develop wireless communications algorithms that maximize system performance for the Starlink Mobile satellite constellation and future networks. The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise in wireless communication systems, strong knowledge of 3GPP RAN protocols (4G/5G/6G), and an interest in building production algorithms that get deployed at global scale.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design and optimize wireless systems algorithms at the MAC and PHY layer for link adaptation, power control, timing advance, and doppler tracking.

Design and simulate complex MAC layer scheduling algorithms that support joint scheduling of users across multiple beams subject to Quality of Service (QoS) and latency constraints.

Analyze inter-cell and inter-beam interference on both uplink and downlink, identify issues on-orbit, and propose solutions through beam planning optimizations, MAC layer scheduling improvements, or advanced signal processing techniques.

Run link level simulations and system level simulations to compare performance of different algorithms at all layers of the protocol stack.

Work directly with software engineers to implement algorithms and deploy to orbit.

Qualify algorithm performance in production through aggregate KPI analysis, high rate per TTI telemetry, and UE log analysis.

Develop high-fidelity models for wireless systems in non-terrestrial applications that leverage 3GPP defined protocols (4G/5G/6G).

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 1+ years of engineering experience (internship/project experience is acceptable); OR 5+ years of professional engineering experience, in lieu of a degree.

Experience with MAC and PHY layer protocols and algorithms used in cellular base stations.

Experience working with 3GPP protocols.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master's degree or PhD in wireless communication systems.

Experience with system design or implementation of MAC and PHY algorithms for cellular systems.

Prior experience debugging issues for a production wireless network deployed at scale.

Prior experience with link level simulations that characterize physical layer decode performance under different channel models.

Prior experience with system level simulation of a communication network modeling inter-cell and inter-user interference.

Fluent in MATLAB and working knowledge of python and/or C/C++.

Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and data analysis; exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range: Software Engineer/Level I: $135,000.00 - $155,000.00/per year Software Engineer/Level II: $155,000.00 - $185,000.00/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 and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

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 .