Bastrop, TX On-site

SpaceX is hiring a Principal Antenna Engineer (Starlink)

About the Role

This role involves leading antenna engineering efforts for a large-scale satellite broadband network, focusing on design, testing, and deployment of cutting-edge phased array and RF technologies.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the architecture and development of advanced antenna systems for low Earth orbit satellite communications
  • Define performance requirements for phased array antennas operating in Ka/Ku frequency bands
  • Oversee electromagnetic simulation and modeling of radiating elements and feed networks
  • Guide the integration of antenna systems into user terminal hardware platforms
  • Develop test plans to validate antenna performance under real-world conditions
  • Collaborate with RF, mechanical, and systems engineers to ensure end-to-end design compatibility
  • Drive innovation in beamforming, beam steering, and interference mitigation techniques
  • Evaluate manufacturing processes for antenna subsystems to ensure scalability
  • Support field testing and troubleshooting of antenna performance across diverse geographies
  • Lead cross-functional teams during rapid prototyping and production phases
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory and spectrum allocation standards
  • Optimize antenna efficiency, gain, and radiation patterns for mobile and fixed user terminals
  • Analyze link budgets and system-level impacts of antenna performance
  • Develop qualification and reliability test procedures for space and user terminal environments
  • Mentor senior engineering staff in antenna design best practices
  • Interface with external partners on technical requirements and integration timelines
  • Stay current with advancements in phased array and mmWave technologies
  • Support root cause analysis for in-field antenna performance issues
  • Drive cost and performance trade studies for next-generation designs
  • Ensure electromagnetic compatibility with adjacent systems and platforms

Nice to Have

  • Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • Experience with active electronically scanned arrays (AESA)
  • Direct involvement in space or aerospace antenna programs
  • Knowledge of adaptive coding and modulation schemes
  • Experience with multi-beam or hybrid beamforming architectures
  • Background in low-profile or conformal antenna design
  • Familiarity with digital predistortion and calibration techniques
  • Patents or publications in antenna or RF systems
  • Experience with large-scale antenna array production
  • Knowledge of ground station antenna systems

Compensation

Competitive salary and equity package commensurate with experience

Work Arrangement

On-site with occasional travel for testing and integration

Team

Part of the Starlink user terminal engineering team focused on next-generation antenna systems

What You’ll Do

  • Lead the design and optimization of advanced phased array antennas for satellite communications
  • Develop and validate electromagnetic models for high-frequency antenna systems
  • Oversee testing in anechoic chambers and field environments to ensure performance targets are met
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate antennas into compact user terminals
  • Drive innovation in beam steering, efficiency, and interference resilience

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in antenna engineering
  • Proven experience with electromagnetic simulation and measurement
  • Strong understanding of RF and microwave systems
  • Ability to lead technical teams and complex development cycles

Preferred Skills

  • Expertise in mmWave and phased array technologies
  • Experience with satellite communication systems
  • Background in consumer hardware mass production
  • Familiarity with regulatory standards for wireless devices
  • Strong problem-solving skills in electromagnetic performance issues

Available for qualified candidates

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SpaceX
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Posted 11 days ago