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Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering)

SpaceX
Full Timeprincipal
Austin, TXPosted 3 days ago

Role Overview

SpaceX is hiring a Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering). This is a full-time role in Austin. Part of SpaceX's Qa hiring, posted 3 days ago. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

Salary Context

Salary is not disclosed in this posting. Market median for Principal-level Qa roles is $170k-$241k (based on 24 comparable listings). Many employers share specifics during the interview process or after an initial screen.

Resume Keywords to Include

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PythonORIPSpaceXTodayMarsPRINCIPALDFT

Job description

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:

  • 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) position at SpaceX?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to SpaceX. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) position at SpaceX located?

This position is based in Austin. SpaceX has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) at SpaceX earn?

SpaceX has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Principal DFT Engineer (Silicon Engineering) role at SpaceX posted?

This role was posted on July 20, 2026 (3 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.

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