Sr. Software Engineer, Components Test

About the role

This position supports the Starshield program, which applies SpaceX launch and satellite technology to government-focused missions like earth observation and secure communications. You will build the software infrastructure required to validate flight-critical hardware, ensuring components perform reliably in extreme conditions. The role demands ownership of the entire test software lifecycle from requirements capture through deployment and maintenance. You will act as the primary software engineer designing and implementing the frameworks that verify hardware integrity. Collaboration with hardware engineers, test engineers, and production teams is central to defining and solving complex validation challenges. Your work will directly impact the reliability and readiness of components used in demanding aerospace environments. You will contribute to the advancement of test methodologies that ensure mission success.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Create modular, reusable automation software in Python for design verification and manufacturing.
• Build interfaces that connect test equipment, production documentation systems, and flight hardware.
• Design custom automation solutions that integrate embedded electronics with hardware.
• Develop algorithms to process test data and verify component acceptance criteria.
• Maintain existing automation systems and collaborate with teams to identify root causes of failures.
• Manage project timelines, milestones, and technical reviews to ensure production readiness.
• Implement test procedures that validate the performance and durability of components under simulated conditions.
• Analyze test results to drive improvements in manufacturing processes and component designs.
• Document software architectures, test plans, and operational procedures for compliance and knowledge transfer.
• Support the integration of new test equipment and software tools into the production environment.
• Optimize test workflows to reduce cycle times and improve overall system efficiency.
• Ensure software solutions adhere to strict quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to translate technical requirements into robust software specifications.
• Drive the adoption of best practices in software development and testing across the engineering organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in STEM or math with 5+ years of software development experience, or 7+ years of professional software development experience without a degree.
• Proficiency in Python, C, or C++, or equivalent full stack development experience.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to comply with ITAR regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code in a professional setting.
• Experience with software development methodologies and version control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the capacity to debug complex software issues.
• Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to adhere to strict security and compliance protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to safety and quality in all aspects of software development.
• Readiness to adapt to evolving project requirements and technical challenges.
• Understanding of software lifecycle management and release processes.
• Capability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical discussions.

Nice to have

• Experience with Linux and Windows environments, networking protocols (TCP, UDP), and version control.
• Background in continuous integration, agile development, and process automation to improve manufacturing yields.
• Knowledge of digital and analog interfaces including GPIB, USB, VISA, TCP/IP, VLAN, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, Modbus, and analog-to-digital conversion.
• Familiarity with signal processing, control feedback loops, and numerical analysis.
• Experience with spacecraft fluid systems, high power electrical systems, electro-mechanical hardware, or embedded product development.
• Ability to troubleshoot interactions between hardware and software, including lab instrumentation and network devices.

Practical notes

• Salary range: $165,000 to $230,000 per year.
• Active security clearances receive a 10% differential (up to $20,000 annually) once briefed into a classified program.
• Package includes stock options, discretionary bonuses, ESPP, medical/dental/vision, 401(k), and 3 weeks of vacation plus 10+ holidays.
• Expect to work extended hours and weekends as required.
• Positions involving classified programs require pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.

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.