Development Test Engineer, Electrical (Direct to Cell) at SpaceX

Sunnyvale, CA

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.

DEVELOPMENT TEST ENGINEER, ELECTRICAL (DIRECT TO CELL)

SpaceX is developing a breakthrough new Direct to Cell satellite network to bring ubiquitous cellular connectivity worldwide via the Starlink constellation. We are partnering with telecommunication companies around the world to bring this service directly from satellites to existing LTE devices, with the goal of providing coverage anywhere the devices can see the sky.

More than 20% of the United States and 90% of the Earth remain uncovered by existing wireless networks, negatively impacting communities around the world. Starlink was designed to connect the disconnected and this new product will greatly expand that mission, extending Starlink’s potential reach to billions of existing cellular devices. The applications range from connecting hikers in national parks, emergency workers such as firefighters, rural communities, remote sensors and devices, and people and devices in emergency situations.

This Development Test Engineer role will help test and validate the network for Internet of Things (IoT) applications while contributing to the future of satellite connectivity solutions for IoT devices. This is a fast-paced R&D focused role that spans across various engineering disciplines to develop, test, and implement the technologies necessary for the successful globalization of satellite IoT connectivity.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and test 4G LTE and 5G solutions for use with Starlink’s Direct to Cell network

• Program firmware scripts in Python for interacting with products and logging test results

• Troubleshoot electronics hardware using equipment such as oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, spectrum analyzers, power supplies, and soldering equipment to determine root cause of failures

• Design and build electro-mechanical assemblies and test fixtures

• Draft user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and reference documentation for internal and external stakeholders

• Work closely with the broader Starlink team to share progress updates and test results

• Challenge assumptions and work to find simple solutions to complex problems

  BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or other STEM discipline

• 1+ years of experience with hardware development or electronics test engineering (internship experience is acceptable)

• Experience with one or more programming languages (i.e., Python, C, C++, etc..)

  PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Ability to read and interpret schematics, circuit layouts, parts lists, and wiring diagrams

• Ability to balance priorities while operating in a high-paced, challenging work environment

• Experience working with wireless network technologies such as LTE, BLE, LoRa, etc

• Strong hands-on skillset and comfortable with basic tools and electro-mechanical tasks

• Creative approach to problem solving with exceptional troubleshooting skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information audiences at varying levels of technical experience

• Demonstrated ability to work in a highly cross-functional role

  ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to travel as needed, up to 10% to other SpaceX sites

• Ability to work at elevated heights occasionally (Rooftops with ladder access)

• Must be available to work extended hours and some weekends

  COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

  Pay range:

  Development Test Engineer/Level I: $105,000.00 - $125,000.00

  Development Test Engineer/Level II: $120,000.00 - $140,000.00

  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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.

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 (https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/?id=ddtc_kb_article_page&sys_id=24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987) .

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.