Sr. BAW Filter Design Engineer (Akoustis)

SR. BAW FILTER DESIGN ENGINEER (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 7M+ 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 a superior figure of merit from coupling and Q factor.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for designing and developing BAW filters from concept to production, including specification definition, Simulation, Characterization, Front-end and Back-end testing, architecture design, and performance optimization.
• Perform advanced EM simulations using tools such as HFSS, ADS, or COMSOL to model BAW filter performance, optimize designs, and ensure manufacturability.
• Design RF modules integrating BAW filters, including layout, packaging, and integration with other RF components such as amplifiers, switches, and antennas.
• Optimize filter performance for key metrics such as insertion loss, return loss, bandwidth, and out-of-band rejection, while meeting size and cost constraints.
• Work closely with process engineers, layout designers, and system architects to ensure seamless integration of BAW filters into larger RF systems.
• Develop test plans, perform RF measurements, and validate filter performance using tools like network analyzers and spectrum analyzers.
• Create detailed design reports, simulation results, and technical documentation to support design reviews and production handoff.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in BAW technology, contributing to the development of next-generation RF solutions.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or STEM discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in RF filter design with a focus on BAW or SAW.
• Experience in EM simulation tools (e.g. HFSS, CST, ADS, or COMSOL).
• Experience with RF measurement equipment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with 5G, Wi-Fi, or IoT RF front-end module design.
• Familiarity with MEMS fabrication processes for BAW filters.
• Knowledge of mixed-signal design and co-simulation with analog/digital circuits.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for automation of simulation and testing workflows.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones.
• This position will sit 100% onsite in our Huntersville, NC facility.