IT Network Engineer

About the role

SpaceX is seeking a network engineer to manage the deployment and maintenance of classified IT infrastructure for national security projects. You will oversee network design, security, and performance optimization while expanding capabilities for new users. This position requires ownership of end to end network lifecycle management in high security environments. You will be responsible for ensuring that network operations align with strict mission requirements and engineering standards. The role demands proactive identification of risks and implementation of robust mitigation strategies. You will collaborate with cross functional teams to integrate network systems and resolve complex connectivity challenges. Success in this position depends on your ability to enhance reliability and automate operational workflows.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect, deploy, and troubleshoot classified network environments to support evolving mission needs.
• Integrate network systems and resolve complex connectivity issues across distributed infrastructure.
• Enhance network reliability through capacity planning, failure detection, and remediation activities.
• Execute network optimization and capacity growth projects that scale with organizational demands.
• Manage firmware updates and system configuration changes to maintain secure and stable operations.
• Install and maintain data center and campus network hardware in compliance with security protocols.
• Implement 802.1X network access control to enforce identity based network policies.
• Automate operational processes and deployment workflows using infrastructure as code principles.
• Define and enforce network standards and policies that govern secure communication channels.
• Produce and update technical network documentation to support operations and future engineering efforts.
• Monitor network performance metrics and generate reports for leadership review and decision making.
• Conduct root cause analysis for critical incidents and coordinate rapid response procedures.
• Support the integration of new technologies and solutions into existing network frameworks.
• Serve as a technical lead for network related initiatives and mentor junior engineering staff.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a STEM field with 3+ years of professional network engineering experience.
• Alternatively, possess 5+ years of professional network engineering experience without a degree in a related field.
• Have 1+ year of experience deploying enterprise, cloud, or web scale network solutions in production environments.
• Demonstrate proficiency with Layer 1 technologies including optical fiber, DWDM, and circuit troubleshooting practices.
• Obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance as a mandatory condition of employment.
• Ability to work independently and make sound technical decisions in sensitive and complex situations.
• Compliance with all applicable government and organizational security policies is required.
• Willingness to follow strict change management procedures for all network modifications.
• Commitment to continuous learning and adaptation to emerging network technologies and threats.

Nice to have

• Practical experience with routers, switches, firewalls, and modems in enterprise settings.
• Deep knowledge of the OSI model and networking standards that govern data communication.
• Experience with Cisco Catalyst and Arista data center switches for high performance deployments.
• Familiarity with DNS, DHCP, SNMP, IP helpers, ARP, CDP, LLDP, and BGP routing protocols.
• Knowledge of switch port security mechanisms and implementation of network monitoring tools.
• Skills in Linux or Windows system administration and Python scripting for automation tasks.
• Industry certifications from Cisco, Juniper, or Arista that validate technical expertise.
• Understanding of network segmentation strategies and secure design principles.
• Exposure to network management platforms and monitoring solutions for proactive operations.

Practical notes

• This role requires a Top Secret security clearance which may involve additional vetting.
• Full time engagement is required with standard working hours as defined by operational needs.
• Travel may be required to support site specific requirements and project deployments.
• Candidates must meet all eligibility requirements as outlined in the job description.
• The position is based in Hawthorne California and is subject to SpaceX hiring policies.
• Applicants should be prepared to provide documentation verifying experience and credentials.
• No partial remote arrangements are available for this role due to operational constraints.
• The selection process may include technical assessments and interviews with engineering leadership.
• Interested candidates should apply promptly to ensure consideration before project staffing needs are met.