Sr. IT Network Automation Engineer

About the role

SpaceX is on the lookout for a seasoned engineer to spearhead the development of automation solutions for our growing network infrastructure. As part of the IT Network Engineering team, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of systems that are integral to rocket design, manufacturing, and spaceflight operations.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Create and enhance tools for switch configuration, automated system backups, software deployment, and comprehensive system monitoring.
• Develop Python scripts to automate routine network tasks, significantly reducing manual effort.
• Continuously monitor and improve the performance and uptime of the corporate network to ensure optimal functionality.
• Act as the technical product owner for internal software related to network infrastructure, driving improvements and innovations.
• Identify opportunities to scale network operations effectively through automation techniques and methodologies.
• Collaborate closely with network engineers to design infrastructure that is not only functional but also maintainable over time.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Participate in troubleshooting and resolving complex network issues, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
• Document processes and procedures to maintain a clear understanding of network configurations and automation workflows.
• Engage in regular reviews of network performance metrics and implement changes based on data-driven insights.
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to continuously enhance the network automation strategy.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related field, accompanied by a minimum of 5 years of experience in network engineering, DevOps, site reliability engineering, or network automation.
• Alternatively, candidates with over 8 years of professional experience specifically in network automation will also be considered.
• Strong proficiency in Linux operating systems is essential.
• Demonstrated programming skills in languages such as Python, Go, Bash, or Shell scripting.
• Must be able to pass an Air Force background check, ensuring compliance with security protocols.
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to satisfy ITAR regulations.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with various networking protocols, including TCP, IPv4, IPv6, as well as voice, video, and streaming technologies.
• Experience utilizing version control systems like Git or Subversion for code management.
• A background in overseeing large-scale network environments that manage thousands of assets.
• Proficiency with configuration management tools such as Ansible or Puppet to streamline operations.
• Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to communicate effectively across different levels of the organization.
• Experience working with mission-critical systems under tight deadlines, showcasing your ability to perform under pressure.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages: Python, Go, Shell, Bash
• Strong knowledge of Linux operating systems
• Familiarity with version control systems: Git, Subversion
• Experience with configuration management tools: Ansible, Puppet
• Understanding of network protocols: TCP, IPv4, IPv6

Practical notes

• Flexibility is required as you must be available to work on weekends and during extended hours when necessary to meet operational demands.
• SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• For requests regarding reasonable accommodations or access to the Affirmative Action Plan, please reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in space technology while working in a dynamic and innovative environment. If you are passionate about network automation and eager to take on new challenges, we encourage you to apply and join our mission to revolutionize space travel.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.