Software Engineer, Embedded Software (Starshield)

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 ofenabling human life on Mars.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER EMBEDDED SOFTWARE (STARSHIELD)

The Starshield mission is to support national security through a focus on timely and reliable information delivery. Our partners in the intelligence community and defense services need best-in-class technology developed and fielded quickly and iteratively. Our goals are focused on delivering meaningful new capabilities through both new hardware development and continual software innovation.

The Starshield Software team is building software that controls satellites operates sensors and creates secure end-to-end communications links on embedded hardware systems. Our engineers are hands-on developing embedded systems and testing new hardware as well as partnering directly with end customers to understand their unique needs.

Software engineers are engaged in every step of the design process for new technologies. We directly maintain our software systems in production whether as part of our distributed ground network or the software flying aboard our satellites. We are looking for engineers who want to write their own code test their own systems and have extreme influence over the end outcomes. Aerospace or satellite experience is not required to be successful here we want engineers to bring fresh ideas from all areas in software. We look for engineers who love solving problems and seek to make an impact on an inspiring mission helping our national security. We are looking for versatile motivated and collaborative engineers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Create highly reliable software systems that control thousands of satellites in low earth orbit
• See your software through from start to finish: from figuring out the core needs to prototyping developing and testing; to on-orbit rollout and beyond
• Work with interdisciplinary teams to brainstorm design and build the next generation of satellite capabilities from cutting-edge sensors and inter-satellite lasers to space-based cloud compute
• Work directly with end customers to deliver quality products and data to meet their needs

There are several roles within the Starshield software team with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific focus areas based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific role responsibilities may include:

• Write high quality Linux-based C software for common processors and micro controllers (e.g. ARM PowerPC x86 etc.)
• Develop novel embedded cryptography applications for satellites and ground equipment
• Develop highly performant networks to connect sensor data to end users
• Build automated ground-based software systems that integrate smart data processing with command and control of the satellites
• Develop models and simulations for flight-like vehicle software testing network performance analysis or research & development projects
• Develop tools that allow for test execution across multiple environments: virtualized hardware real hardware-in-the-loop and even vehicle-in-the-loop testing

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in computer science engineering math or scientific discipline; OR 2years of professional experience insoftware development in lieu of a degree
• Development experience in C C or Rust

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Solid fundamental knowledge of computer architecture networks debugging and software testing
• Ability to work effectively and creatively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
• Ability to work independently and in a team take initiative and communicate effectively
• Production experience with containerization technologies (e.g. Docker Kubernetes)
• Experience with relational databases (PostgreSQL CockroachDB or similar)
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $125000.00 - $145000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $145000.00 - $175000.00/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 of company stock stock options or long-term cash awards as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical vision and dental coverage access to a 401(k) retirement plan short and long-term disability insurance life insurance paid parental leave and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual carryover and use requirements of the law.

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 SpaceXs Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to.