Sr. Wi-Fi Software Engineer
Job description
About the role
In this role, you will contribute to the advancement of the Starlink broadband network, focusing on enhancing the wireless connectivity experience for millions of users worldwide. Your responsibilities will include overseeing the software development roadmap and ensuring effective technical execution for Wi-Fi systems. This position requires collaboration across both hardware and software domains to achieve optimal performance and reliability.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Lead the strategic development of the product and software roadmap specifically for Wi-Fi functionalities.
- Conduct in-depth analysis and optimization of kernel-level system performance to enhance overall system efficiency.
- Collaborate closely with electrical and RF engineering teams to improve testing protocols for both hardware and software components.
- Mentor and guide junior software engineers, promoting a culture of high performance and innovation within the team.
- Enhance the efficiency and reliability of Wi-Fi mesh networking solutions to ensure connectivity.
- Design and implement internal tools aimed at automating testing, deployment, and data analysis within a continuous integration environment.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex software issues related to Wi-Fi systems, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal user experience.
- Stay updated on the latest advancements in Wi-Fi technology and integrate relevant innovations into the existing systems.
- Document software designs, processes, and testing results to maintain clear communication and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Engage in cross-functional collaboration to align Wi-Fi software initiatives with broader organizational goals.
- Participate in code reviews to ensure high-quality software development practices are maintained.
- Contribute to the development of best practices for software engineering within the organization.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related STEM field, along with a minimum of 5 years of software development experience; alternatively, 7 years of professional software development experience without a degree.
- At least 3 years of hands-on experience with programming in C or C++.
- Solid understanding of networking protocols, including TCP/IP and UDP, as well as familiarity with the IEEE 802.11 wireless standard.
- Proven experience in developing embedded software tailored for networking hardware.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
Nice to have
- Proficiency in additional programming languages such as Python or Golang.
- Experience with hostAP, Linux bridge, and a deep understanding of network stack internals.
- Familiarity with DHCP, as well as both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols.
- Knowledge of networking kernel modules and drivers, enhancing the ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
- Understanding of security protocols applicable to distributed systems, ensuring protection of network data.
- Experience in managing cross-functional projects and conducting stability tests for Wi-Fi systems.
Skills & tools
- Proficient in C, C++, Python, and Golang.
- Familiar with Linux operating systems and the IEEE 802.11 wireless standard.
- Knowledgeable about various networking protocols, including TCP/IP, UDP, DHCP, IPv4, and IPv6.
Practical notes
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Salary: Ranges from $175,000 to $230,000 annually.
- Compensation package includes potential stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
- Comprehensive benefits package featuring medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with a 401(k) plan, life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays each year.
- Be prepared for the possibility of extended hours and weekend work as project demands arise.
- ITAR compliance is essential: applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to comply with export control regulations.
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.