Principal Antenna Engineer (Starshield)

SpaceX

Quick summary

Work type: On-site
Location: Hawthorne, CA
Salary: $200,000–$285,000 / yr
Posted: today

Market check

Salary context

Above market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $164k

This role $242k

$111k most similar roles pay here $304k

This role pays more than 94% of similar roles. Most pay $135,000–$193,000 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $242k versus about $164k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft with the mission of enabling humans to become a multi-planetary species. It operates the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, as well as the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

SpaceX currently has 604 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $130,000–$155,000 across 440 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Principal Antenna Engineer (Starshield)

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As a Principal Antenna Engineer on SpaceX’s Starshield team, you will contribute to advanced development programs supporting U.S. National Security by providing phased array expertise and leading antenna integration efforts for satellite systems. You will use 3D EM simulation tools like CST or HFSS, and be proficient in programming languages such as Python or MATLAB, while also familiarizing yourself with RF circuit simulation tools and antenna measurement techniques. This role demands experience in small antenna design, phased arrays, reflector antennas, and antenna test validation, requiring a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering along with at least 8 years of relevant industry experience.

Skills

Python C# C++ MATLAB HFSS CST AWR ADS Genesys TICRA XFDTD

What you'll do

Provide phased array expertise to set specifications and debug problems for satellite products.
Lead or support the integration of antennas with spacecraft and other systems.
Utilize 3D EM simulation tools like CST, HFSS, FEKO, EMPro, TICRA, or XFDTD.
Apply knowledge of antenna measurement techniques using anechoic/reverb chambers.
Develop prototypes and test RF concepts such as impedance matching and smith chart.

What we're looking for

Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering
8+ years of RF and antenna research or development experience
Experience with 3D EM simulation tools (CST, HFSS, FEKO, etc.)
Proficiency in Python, C#, C++, or MATLAB programming languages
Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and tools

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