Sr. BAW Filter Design Engineer (Akoustis)

Sr. BAW Filter Design Engineer (Akoustis)

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.

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, while also connecting the world through Starlink. Our work will help further the impact that Starlink is already making to 7M+ users around the world, while allowing us to broaden that reach dramatically and continue connecting the unconnected here on earth.

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 engineering or STEM discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in RF filter design with a focus on BAW or SAW.
• Experience in EM simulation tools (e.g. HFSS, CST, ADS, or COMSOL).
• Experience with RF measurement equipment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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.
• This position will sit 100% onsite in our Huntersville, NC facility.

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.