RAN Integration Engineer (Starlink Mobile)

RAN INTEGRATION ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)

SpaceX is developing a new satellite-to-mobile 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 mobile phones, with the goal of providing coverage anywhere a phone can see the sky.

More than 20% of the United States and 90% of the Earth remain uncovered by existing wireless networks. Starlink was designed to connect the disconnected, and this new product will greatly expand that mission by extending coverage to billions of existing cellular devices. Applications include connecting hikers in national parks, emergency responders, rural communities, remote sensors, and people in emergency situations.

In this role, you will be responsible for integrating, validating, and optimizing Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions that combine terrestrial LTE/5G with non-terrestrial network (NTN) capabilities. You will work across eNB/gNB and EPC/5GC platforms, manage configuration changes, coordinate and manage vendors, and maintain lab environments that support rapid iteration and reliable service delivery. This is an excellent opportunity to work at the cutting edge of satellite connectivity with a world-class team.

Responsibilities

• Lead RAN lab integration activities for LTE, 5G NR, and NR-NTN features supporting Starlink Mobile services.
• Perform and document configuration changes on eNB and gNB systems, ensuring compatibility with NR and NR-NTN test platforms and devices.
• Manage vendor relationships, including technical coordination, requirement alignment, and issue resolution with RAN equipment and software suppliers.
• Develop, maintain, and execute test cases for RAN validation, including functional, performance, interoperability, and regression testing.
• Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including environment setup, equipment provisioning, troubleshooting, and resource allocation.
• Draft, review, and enforce lab policies and procedures covering safety, configuration control, access management, and test documentation standards.
• Manage and maintain system interoperability testing progress, issue tracking and resolution.
• Collaborate with internal systems, software, and field teams to resolve integration issues and support end-to-end service validation.
• Contribute to the definition and implementation of NR-NTN-specific features and operational workflows.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline.
• Experience working with LTE, 5G/NR, and NR-NTN protocols and/or architectures.
• 2+ years of experience with eNB and gNB configuration, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience managing configuration changes.
• Experience with test case development, execution, and management (including test planning and results tracking).
• Experience with lab operations, including equipment management and testbed maintenance.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• 5+ years of lab/field experience in new product introduction and/or product certification.
• Prior experience with non-terrestrial networks (NTN), satellite communications, or direct-to-device connectivity.
• In depth knowledge of 3GPP NTN specifications and related R17+ RAN features.
• Experience with automation tools in cloud based environments for configuration management or test execution.
• Vendor management experience working with modem companies and OEMs.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Willing and able to spend extended periods at partner sites

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. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.