OS/Platform Software Engineer (Starlink)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

3 weeks paid vacation

Paid parental leave

Company stock options

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is seeking an OS/Platform Software Engineer to work in Redmond, WA. The role involves maintaining OSS software, supporting secure boot components, and developing spacecraft software update processes. Ideal candidates will have a degree in a related field or equivalent experience in software development.

Compensation includes a salary ranging from $125,000 to $175,000 depending on experience, along with comprehensive benefits like medical coverage, 401(k), and paid vacation. This is an excellent opportunity for engineers passionate about space technology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 2+ years in software development.
• Development experience in C, C++, Python, or Rust.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update OSS software such as Linux.
• Develop, deploy, and test spacecraft software updates.
• Support secure boot and runtime security of Linux components.
• Maintain spacecraft Ethernet network.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Rust

Networking

Linux Networking Stack

Debugging

Performance Optimization

Unit Testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline

Job description

OS/Platform Software Engineer (Starlink)

Redmond, WA

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

At SpaceX, we’re leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 9M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update in house branches of OSS software such as Linux, Buildroot, and u-boot.
• Support secureboot and runtime security of all Linux based satellite components.
• Maintain the spacecraft Ethernet network and connectivity.
• Develop, deploy and test spacecraft software update process.
• Support in‑house System on Chip and peripheral through the life‑cycle of the part.
• Support OS/Platform specific test infrastructure.
• Development and support device drivers for third party and in‑house components.
• Be the first software team to receive new satellite components.
• Interface with Silicon, Electrical, and Application Software Engineers to bring hardware from prototype stage to on‑orbit operations.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree (internship experience is applicable).
• Development experience in C, C++, Python and/or Rust.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of networking and Linux networking stack.
• Good knowledge of computer architecture and modern secure boot flows.
• Experience with ARM embedded systems.
• Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring.
• Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State to comply with export regulations.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay range: Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00 per year. Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].