Software Engineer, Hardware-in-the-Loop

About the role

This position focuses on the Starlink program, where you will build testing infrastructure for space-based mesh networks and communication systems. You will own the full lifecycle of your projects, from initial design and development to operational support and testing execution. The role requires you to translate complex system requirements into robust software components that validate critical hardware behaviors. You will act as a key contributor in ensuring test frameworks are scalable, reliable, and efficient. This position demands ownership of technical decisions and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Your work will directly impact the quality and reliability of satellite communication systems. You will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of test data and results throughout the development process.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and maintain software infrastructure that automates test execution, deployment workflows, and complex data analysis within a continuous integration framework.
• Investigate and resolve intricate technical issues by collaborating closely with hardware and software teams to isolate root causes.
• Architect and sustain integrated test platforms designed to deliver high-quality feedback rapidly and accurately.
• Perform testing activities across virtualized simulations and hardware-in-the-loop environments to validate system behavior.
• Drive the end-to-end development lifecycle of specialized testing tools dedicated to Starlink vehicle systems.
• Implement solutions that enhance the reliability and performance of simulation models used for validation.
• Optimize existing testing frameworks to improve execution speed, scalability, and resource utilization.
• Document technical processes and system architectures to ensure clarity and maintainability for future engineers.
• Interface with various subsystems to ensure software components meet stringent system-level requirements.
• Contribute to the creation of test strategies that align with project milestones and engineering objectives.
• Analyze large datasets generated during tests to identify trends, anomalies, and potential failure modes.
• Support the deployment of builds and test artifacts to staging and production-like environments.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in STEM, math, or computer science with 1+ years of professional experience in software, hardware, or test systems development; OR possess 3+ years of professional experience in these fields without a degree.
• Demonstrate proficiency in C, C++, Python, or Rust to write efficient and maintainable code.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to meet ITAR export requirements.
• Exhibit willingness to work weekends and extended hours as necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Show the ability to understand complex technical documentation and translate it into software solutions.
• Possess strong problem-solving skills to tackle ambiguous challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Display effective communication skills to articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with Linux operating systems, Bash scripting, and standard networking protocols.
• Background in developing and maintaining CI/CD pipelines to automate software delivery.
• Capability to perform detailed data analysis and interact with simulation software tools.
• Familiarity with containerization tools such as Kubernetes or Docker for deployment and scaling.
• Strong foundational knowledge in electronics, RF communications, physics, and advanced mathematics.
• Proven track record of deploying software applications in real-world, high-stakes environments.

Practical notes

• Work is eligible for salary levels ranging from $125,000 to $150,000 for Level 1; Level 2 compensation ranges from $145,000 to $175,000.
• Total rewards package includes company stock, long-term incentives, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Comprehensive benefits cover medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 401(k) retirement plan and life insurance.
• Additional protections include disability insurance and paid parental leave.
• Employees receive 3 weeks of vacation plus 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Company-operated shuttles run between select Seattle locations and the Redmond office.
• SpaceX maintains an Equal Opportunity Employer status for all employment activities.

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.