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. YIELD ENGINEER (STARLINK/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 and connecting the world through Starlink. We design, build, launch, and operate the world's largest constellation of satellites, enabling us to operate a global internet network unbounded by traditional ground infrastructure limitations. The root of SpaceX's success so far lies in our mission to keep all engineering and production in-house, which enables a tight feedback loop, nimble decision-making, and speedy deliverables. With millions of daily users worldwide already online, Starlink is truly a game-changer and levels the playing field for those who were previously unconnected. Akoustis supports the success of Starlink by supplying world-class RF filters manufactured to the highest levels of quality and reliability. At Akoustis, we are committed to manufacturing excellence, with a constant focus on yield improvement, cost control, and production throughput. We are seeking a driven, self-motivated yield engineer to join our semiconductor fabrication team, which focuses on producing high-performance RF filter devices. In this role, you will own FAB yield, identify trends, uncover root causes of excursions, and drive continuous improvements throughout the manufacturing process. This position offers the opportunity to make a highly visible, direct, and measurable impact in a dynamic, high-volume environment. RESPONSIBILITIES: Monitor, analyze, and report on fab yields and RF test results to identify trends and catch anomalies Understand S-parameters, RF test and wafer probing Develop, implement, and maintain Statistical Process Control (SPC) systems, process capability (Cpk) analysis, Western Electric rules, and other statistical tools to quickly detect excursions and improvement opportunities Apply structured problem solving tools - such as 8D, PFMEA, DOE, multivariate and other advanced data analysis methods - to resolve excursion and optimize yield performance Lead and own improvement projects that drive FAB yield and performance to new levels Collaborate in cross-functional teams spanning a wide range of the company's operations - such as process, device, product, quality & reliability, software, and design engineers Develop and own automated yield dashboards, pareto charts, and SPC tracking systems for continuous monitoring and real-time, data-based activities Create, maintain, and improve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), engineering instructions, and documentation to ensure consistency and knowledge retention BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline Experience in RF device testing, yield engineering, or semiconductor manufacturing PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Strong analytical skills with demonstrated ability in data analysis, root cause identification, and yield correlation Solid understanding of SPC, DOE, 8D, and risk/change management processes Working knowledge of the interaction between semiconductor fabrication processes and device performance Familiarity with scripting and automation (e.g., JMP's JSL, or Python) for test data analysis automation Proficiency with JMP statistical software, Microsoft Office Suite, database systems, and KLayout CAD software Strong written, verbal, and organizational communication skills Familiarity with high-volume manufacturing environments involving frequent product changeovers and yield variation management 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 Canandaigua, NY facility COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range Akoustis Test Engineer/Level I: $80,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year Akoustis Test Engineer/Level II: $95,000.00 - $130,000.00/per year Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form o