Sr. Software Engineer, HITL

About the role

As a Senior Software Engineer on the Special Programs team at SpaceX, you will play a crucial role in developing and sustaining simulation and prototyping software for our flight systems. This position grants you the opportunity to take full ownership of high-performance applications that are essential for validating the performance of both hardware and software across multiple engineering disciplines. Your contributions will directly impact the efficiency and reliability of our aerospace technologies.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and implement automated testing frameworks for both hardware in the loop (HITL) and hardware out of the loop (HOOTL) systems, ensuring robust validation processes.
• Develop comprehensive full-stack software solutions to facilitate vehicle subsystem testing, leveraging flight software and simulation data to enhance accuracy.
• Construct and uphold continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) infrastructure, along with test automation pipelines to streamline software delivery.
• Verify that all software outputs adhere to stringent technical specifications and design standards, maintaining high quality throughout the development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and translate them into technical specifications for software development.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex software issues, providing timely solutions to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Document software designs, processes, and testing methodologies to ensure knowledge transfer and maintainability.
• Participate in code reviews to uphold coding standards and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related engineering discipline is required.
• At least 5 years of professional software development experience, with proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java.
• A minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience with HITL and HOOTL software testing methodologies.
• At least 3 years of experience in managing CI/CD pipelines and implementing test automation strategies.
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to comply with ITAR regulations.
• Must possess the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience in full-stack web application development is advantageous.
• Familiarity with JavaScript libraries, particularly Lit, React, and Redux, would be beneficial.
• Knowledge of build and test frameworks such as Bamboo, Ansible, and Jenkins is a plus.
• Experience with monitoring tools like Grafana or Elasticsearch can enhance your application.
• Proficiency in containerization technologies, including Docker and Kubernetes, is desirable.
• Familiarity with Linux or Unix operating systems is a plus.
• Experience working with database management systems such as Postgres, MySQL, or Oracle would be advantageous.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages: Python, C++, Java, and JavaScript.
• Familiar with frameworks and libraries: Lit, React, Redux.
• Experienced with CI/CD tools: Bamboo, Ansible, Jenkins.
• Knowledgeable in monitoring and logging tools: Grafana, Elasticsearch.
• Skilled in containerization technologies: Docker, Kubernetes.
• Comfortable working in Linux or Unix environments.
• Experienced with database systems: Postgres, MySQL, Oracle.

Practical notes

• The salary for this position ranges from $165,000 to $230,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Individuals with active security clearances may qualify for a 10% salary differential, potentially adding up to an additional $20,000 per year.
• The total compensation package includes stock options, long-term cash awards, a 401(k) plan, comprehensive medical/dental/vision insurance, and paid time off.
• The role may require extended hours and availability on weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Employment is contingent upon successfully obtaining a Top Secret security clearance.
• Pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing are mandatory for individuals working on sensitive missions.

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.