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Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering)

Lead the implementation and optimization of DFT architectures for next-generation ASICs at SpaceX.

Location
Austin, TX
Compensation
Not disclosed
Level
principal
Type
full time

Posted by employer 2 months ago

First seen on Joblaze 2 months ago

Last verified on the company career page 4 hours ago

Requirements

Experience
10+ years
Education
Bachelor's degree
Visa
Sponsorship available

Not disclosed in this posting: compensation, work arrangement.

Joblaze summary

The Principal DFT Engineer at SpaceX plays a crucial role in developing and optimizing DFT architectures for next-generation ASICs used in the Starlink network. This position requires extensive experience with ASIC design, scan insertion, and DFT methodologies, utilizing tools like Siemens Tessent and programming languages such as Python and Perl. Ideal candidates will have over a decade of relevant experience and a strong background in electrical or computer engineering, making this role suitable for seasoned professionals looking to contribute to cutting-edge technology in a fast-paced environment.

Joblaze insights

  • Listed about 2 months ago — first seen on Joblaze August 1, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 9, 2026.
  • This exact title is also open at 2 other locations at SpaceX: Palo Alto, CA, Irvine, CA.
  • Python appears in 21.4% of 187 comparable principal other roles in United States; Perl appears in 1.1% of 187 comparable principal other roles in United States.

Quick facts

How much experience is required?
At least 10 years of relevant experience for this Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) role.
What's the tech stack?
Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: ASIC, C++, DFT, Perl, Python, Siemens Tessent.
Does SpaceX sponsor work visas for this role?
Yes — the posting indicates visa sponsorship is available for the right candidate.
What seniority level is this role?
SpaceX targets principal-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?
Full-time for this Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) role at SpaceX.

From the original posting

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.

PRINCIPAL DFT ENGINEER (SILICON ENGINEERING)

At SpaceX we’re leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious engineer who will work alongside world-class cross-disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering and ASIC implementation). In this role, you will be developing next-generation ASICs for deployment in space and ground infrastructures around the globe. These chips are enabling connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable. Your efforts will help deliver cutting-edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Lead implementation and optimization of DFT architectures, including scan insertion, compression/decompression logic, memory BIST, and logic BIST, leveraging Siemens Tessent tools for RTL and gate netlist DFT implementation
  • Own ATPG tools and methodologies, including generating patterns for stuck-at, transition, and path delay fault models, while focusing on pattern compression, diagnosis, and hierarchical test flows. Provide post-silicon testing and validation support
  • Responsible for evaluating design readiness for scan insertion through RTL and physical design Scan Design Rule Check (DRC) tools
  • Integration and verification of Design for Test (DFT) fabrics and IP within Subsystems
  • Run and debug non-timing and SDF annotated gate level simulations
  • Develop test scripts, automate processes, and analyze data using programming languages such as Perl, Python, Tcl, or C+

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer science
  • 10+ years of experience working with ASICs
  • 10+ years of experience in scan insertion and DFT setup, integration and validation

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Leadership experience driving SOC DFT execution from concept through tapeout and product deployment
  • RTL experience to understand, trace and debug RTL connectivity issues as they pertain to DFT
  • Ability to solve complex problems including clock domain crossings and power optimization
  • Experience with UPF (Unified Power Format), formal verification, and DRC rule checking experience
  • Familiar with advanced silicon process and technology nodes for high speed and low power consumption
  • Strong implementation or integration of design blocks using Verilog/SystemVerilog
  • Experience working with ATE testers and test teams

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.

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