Software Engineer, Starlink Network

About the role

In this position, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining the software that drives the Starlink satellite network, aimed at delivering high-speed internet access worldwide. This role encompasses overseeing the entire software development lifecycle for systems that operate on satellites, ground gateways, and user terminals, ensuring they function seamlessly and efficiently.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop real-time software solutions for various components, including satellites, gateways, switches, and user terminals, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Take the lead in design discussions, architectural planning, and code reviews to foster a collaborative development environment.
• Create prototypes and run experiments to test and validate new design ideas and concepts, contributing to innovative solutions.
• Construct internal tools that facilitate data visualization, software testing, and deployment processes to enhance operational efficiency.
• Oversee the management of software releases across multiple environments, including virtualized systems, hardware-in-the-loop simulations, and on-orbit testing scenarios.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate software solutions with hardware components, ensuring cohesive system functionality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve software issues that arise during development and operational phases, maintaining high standards of quality and performance.
• Document software designs, processes, and systems to ensure clarity and facilitate knowledge sharing within the team.
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to continuously improve software development practices and methodologies.
• Participate in training and mentoring junior engineers, fostering a culture of learning and growth within the team.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of development processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance productivity and software quality.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related scientific field, or at least 2 years of relevant professional software development experience, including internships.
• Strong programming skills in C, C++, or assembly language, with the ability to write efficient and maintainable code.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and extended hours, as needed to meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with software development best practices, including version control, testing, and documentation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Nice to have

• Experience in a production environment utilizing C, C++, or assembly language for real-world applications.
• A background in debugging and deploying software solutions in practical settings, demonstrating an understanding of real-world challenges.
• Knowledge of high-performance computing, physics simulations, game engine development, or real-time rendering techniques.
• Experience with distributed systems and networking protocols, including TCP/IP and UDP, to ensure robust connectivity and communication.
• Understanding of security practices related to internet services and distributed systems to safeguard user data and system integrity.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages: C, C++, and assembly.
• Familiar with networking protocols such as TCP/IP and UDP.
• Experienced in working with distributed systems and real-time software architecture.

Practical notes

Compensation for this role ranges from $135,000 to $155,000 annually for Level I positions and from $155,000 to $185,000 for Level II positions. The total compensation package includes company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits provided encompass medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays each year. Compliance with ITAR regulations is mandatory; therefore, applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylees. SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

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.