Lead the validation and optimization of the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack for SpaceX's Starlink Mobile program.
Posted by employer 2 months ago
First seen on Joblaze 2 months ago
Last verified on the company career page 1 day ago
Requirements
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Visa
- Sponsorship available
Not disclosed in this posting: work arrangement.
Benefits
Joblaze summary
In the role of Sr. RAN Software Engineer for Starlink Mobile, the engineer will focus on validating and optimizing the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack, ensuring robust performance through automated testing frameworks. Proficiency in Python, C, and C++, along with extensive experience in LTE/5G testing and debugging, is essential for success in this position. This role is ideal for seasoned professionals with a strong background in telecommunications and software development, particularly those familiar with 3GPP specifications and RAN features.
Joblaze insights
- Listed about 2 months ago — first seen on Joblaze August 6, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 7, 2026.
- This exact title is also open at 1 other location at SpaceX: Redmond, WA.
- Salary band is above the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$128,445).
- Starts above 78% of 262 comparable senior other roles in United States that list Python we track (median $154,000 across 55 companies). See Python salary trends
- Python appears in 16.5% of 2379 comparable senior other roles in United States; 5G NR appears in 0.2% of 2379 comparable senior other roles in United States.
Quick facts
- What's the salary range?
- SpaceX lists $175,000–$280,000 for this role.
- How much experience is required?
- At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Sr. RAN Software Engineer (Starlink Mobile) role.
- What's the tech stack?
- Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: 3GPP, 5G NR, C++, CI/CD, LTE, Python.
- 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 senior candidates for this position.
- Is this full-time or contract?
- Full-time for this Sr. RAN Software Engineer (Starlink Mobile) 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.
SR. RAN SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK MOBILE)
SpaceX is developing a satellite-to-mobile network to deliver ubiquitous cellular connectivity worldwide through the Starlink constellation. We are partnering with mobile network operators globally to provide direct-to-cell service, extending coverage to billions of existing cellular devices. Starlink Mobile was designed to connect the unconnected, 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.
As a Sr. RAN Software Engineer on the Starlink Mobile program, you will lead the validation and optimization of the 4G/5G RAN software protocol stack. This role requires strong software engineering skills to build scalable test automation frameworks and work directly with other software developers to triage and resolve complex 4G/5G protocol stack software issues.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the design, development, and maintenance of CI/CD test automation frameworks for eNB/gNB feature validation, including functional, performance, interoperability, and regression testing
- Analyze UE and eNB/gNB logs to debug and root-cause RAN issues, and collaborate with developers to resolves issues and drive feature improvements
- Build software tools and data pipelines to analyze RAN performance and optimize eNB/gNB parameters to improve network KPIs
- Manage and prioritize network issues while collaborating closely with development teams to drive resolution
- Troubleshoot and maintain RAN lab infrastructure in collaboration with partner teams
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline
- 5+ years of Python/C/C++ coding experience
- 5+ years of experience developing, executing, and managing automated LTE/5G-NR test cases (including test planning and results tracking)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- In-depth knowledge of 3GPP specifications and R17+ RAN features
- Experience with user equipment (UE) log analysis and associated software tools (QXDM/XCAL)
- Experience developing test automation frameworks or CI/CD pipelines
- Strong understanding of LTE and 5G-NR protocols with hands-on experience resolving software issues at the PHY, MAC, and RRC layers
- Experience supporting products through the full release cycle including commercial deployment
- Strong skills in debugging and performance optimization; exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 3: $175,000.00 - $280,000.00
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.