Senior Software Engineer, Starshield: Orbit-Scale Systems

SpaceX; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 165,000 - 265,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

401(k) plan

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Paid time off

Employee stock purchase plan

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Sr. Software Engineer for the Starshield program in Hawthorne, CA. You will contribute to building secure software for national security space missions and work across teams to deliver high-assurance systems.

The role emphasizes developing reliable Linux-based C++ software, testing, and operational support for satellite networks, with opportunities to influence next‑gen space capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CS/engineering or STEM with 5+ years in software development, or 7+ years without a degree.
• Proficient in C/C++, Python, or similar languages.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Create reliable software systems that control hundreds of satellites in low Earth orbit.
• Improve satellite constellation performance, security, and availability for diverse users.
• From requirements to prototyping, development, testing, and on-orbit rollout.
• Collaborate across disciplines to design next-gen satellite capabilities.

Skills

C/C++

Python

Top Secret clearance

Education

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

Tools

Linux kernel

Networking protocols (TCP/UDP)

High-performance C++

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Sr. Software Engineer for the Starshield program in Hawthorne, CA. You will contribute to building secure software for national security space missions and work across teams to deliver high-assurance systems.

The role emphasizes developing reliable Linux-based C++ software, testing, and operational support for satellite networks, with opportunities to influence next‑gen space capabilities.