BAW Filter Design Engineer (Starlink/Akoustis)

About the role

Akoustis is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX, providing industry leading RF filters using patented XBAW technology to help drive the mission of making human life multi-planetary and connecting the world through Starlink.

We design, build, launch, and operate the world's largest constellation of satellites, enabling us to operate a global internet network unbounded by traditional ground infrastructure limitations. The root of SpaceX's success so far lies in our mission to keep all engineering and production in-house, which enables a tight feedback loop, nimble decision-making, and speedy deliverables.

With millions of daily users worldwide already online, Starlink is truly a game-changer and levels the playing field for those who were previously unconnected.

XBAW technology utilizes MEMS-based thin film transfer process, enabling a broad range of piezoelectric material synthesis and compositions tailored for specific application needs with enhanced material properties and an optimized resonator performance, including a superior figure of merit from coupling and Q factor.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for designing and developing BAW filters from concept to production, including specification definition, simulation, characterization, front-end and back-end testing, architecture design, and performance optimization
• Perform advanced EM simulations using tools such as HFSS, ADS, or COMSOL to model BAW filter performance, optimize designs, and ensure manufacturability
• Design RF modules integrating BAW filters, including layout, packaging, and integration with other RF components such as amplifiers, switches, and antennas
• Optimize filter performance for key metrics such as insertion loss, return loss, bandwidth, and out-of-band rejection, while meeting size and cost constraints
• Work closely with process engineers, layout designers, and system architects to ensure seamless integration of BAW filters into larger RF systems
• Develop test plans, perform RF measurements, and validate filter performance using tools like network analyzers and spectrum analyzers
• Create detailed design reports, simulation results, and technical documentation to support design reviews and production handoff
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in BAW technology, contributing to the development of next-generation RF solutions

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with RF, antenna, or communication systems (internship and extracurricular experience is applicable)
• Experience in EM simulation tools (e.g. HFSS, CST, ADS, or COMSOL)
• Experience with radio test and measurement equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzers

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering with emphasis in RF/antenna engineering
• Experience with 5G, Wi-Fi, or IoT RF front-end module design
• Familiarity with MEMS fabrication processes for BAW filters
• Knowledge of mixed-signal design and co-simulation with analog/digital circuits
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for automation of simulation and testing workflows

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones

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.