Software Development Test Engineer (Starlink)

InvestedintheMission; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX in Texas is seeking a Software Development Test Engineer for Starlink to design, build and maintain hardware-in-the-loop testbeds and related infrastructure. You will work with multidisciplinary teams to simulate on-orbit scenarios, expand the HITL fleet, and ensure robust test coverage across software and hardware interfaces.

The role requires a Bachelor's in an engineering field, Python development experience and CI/CD know-how, with readiness to work shifts and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field.
• 1+ years of professional test experience within electrical, mechanical, and/or aerospace engineering.
• Development experience in Python.
• Experience in CI/CD pipeline development.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) testbeds and related infrastructure for Starlink software CI.
• Develop test cases and simulation environments to replicate on-orbit scenarios for flight-like testing.
• Ensure test coverage across software and hardware interfaces, balancing reliability and safety.
• Scale HITL testing capacity to meet growing Starlink software demands.
• Analyze HITL results to troubleshoot issues and prevent bugs from reaching production.

Skills

HIL/HITL testing

Python

CI/CD

Test experience

Electronics fundamentals

Networking knowledge

Debugging

Unit testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

Oscilloscopes

DAQs

Electronic loads

Spectrum analyzers

3D CAD software

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)

Networking hardware

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out 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.

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK)

At SpaceX, we are 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, providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. Our mission is to design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system, including thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that integrates it all. We are just beginning to explore Starlink's potential global impact and are seeking top-tier engineers to help maximize its utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Software Development Test Engineer for Starlink, you will be responsible for designing and building “hardware-in-the-loop” (HIL/HITL) test systems. These systems allow for Starlink software engineers to build technologies such as space laser mesh networks, next-generation phased array antennas, advanced collision avoidance algorithms, and much more. You will be working with a multidisciplinaryteam on efforts such as constructing a platform to test industrial ground antennas, high-power amplifiers, ground-to-space lasers, and more. You will also be collaborating closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that we provide a highly effective, user-friendly integrated test platform.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design, build, and maintain highly reliable hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) testbeds—including surrounding infrastructure, tooling, and support equipment for the Starlink software continuous integration system
• Develop test cases and create simulation environments that replicate on-orbit scenarios to deliver flight-like testing capabilities
• Ensure all software has an appropriate level of test coverage, balancing reliability, velocity and safety
• Pioneer innovative strategies to scale the HITL fleet in accordance with the Starlink software organization’s growing test demands
• Analyse and troubleshoot HITL test results to identify testbed issues and prevent software bugs from reaching production

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in software, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, or a related engineering discipline
• 1+ years of professional test experience within electrical, mechanical, and/or aerospace engineering
• Development experience in Python
• Experience in CI/CD pipeline development

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience with integration and testing of electrical, electromechanical, RF, and/or high voltage systems
• Experience with electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, DAQs, electronic loads, and spectrum analyzers
• Experience with 3D CAD software for design, modeling, and manufacturing applications
• Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
• Experience with communication protocols including USB, VISA, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, and Modbus
• Experience working with networking hardware and troubleshooting layers 2-4 of the OSI-model
• Strong skills in troubleshooting, debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, RF communications, math, and physics
• Experience with simulation software and data analysis
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to learn quickly and work effectively in a dynamic environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

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 ... or ... should reach out to [e-mail].