Sr. Acoustic Filter CAD Engineer, Layout (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.

SR. ACOUSTIC FILTER CAD ENGINEER, LAYOUT (AKOUSTIS)

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 5M+ 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 superior figure of merit from coupling and Q factor. The Sr. Acoustic Filter CAD Engineer specializing in XBAW technology is responsible for the physical design and implementation of RF filter chips based on XBAW resonators. This role focuses on translating circuit schematics into precise physical layouts, leveraging the unique properties of XBAW’s MEMS-based thin film transfer process to optimize piezoelectric material synthesis for applications like 5G, Wi-Fi, or defense systems. The engineer ensures functionality, manufacturability, and compliance with stringent design rules.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop EDA tool and XBAW filter design and layout flow best-practice methodologies, document these practices and policies and gather feedback from end-users to identify areas for further improvement.


• Create, deploy, maintain and continuously improve automation flows for XBAW filter design, layout, process migration, self-checking simulation and physical verification tools for LVS, DRC and parasitic extraction by way of scripting and/or programming.


• Build scripts, in an agreed upon programing language, to automate repetitive tasks or facilitate an increase in productive work.


• Develop robust design rules by working with cross functional process, device, design and test teams.


• Create and schedule R&D devices and reticles composition and tape out activities for product and process development.


• Design EDA specifically as it relates to: DRC integration and filter layout; PCM and alignment-related design elements and test/probe card streamlining.


• Optimize the CAD process in every way imaginable.


• Handle XBAW PDK and standard cell installation, create and modify p-cells as per project requirements.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering and 5+ years of professional IC layout experience; or 8+ years of professional IC layout experience in lieu of a degree.


• 3+ years of programming experience.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience developing custom SKILL routines, P-cells, symbols and callbacks in Cadence SKILL routines.


• Programming in Python, Visual Basics, C++ and/or other scripting languages.


• Understanding of fabrication and electrical considerations driving layout rules—used to determine proper rule application.


• Experience with electromagnetics tools like Ansys HFSS.


• Knowledge of semiconductor device physics and RF Experience.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

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


• This position sits fully onsite at 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 [email protected].