Software Engineer, Hardware Test & Automation (Starlink Subassemblies)

SpaceX; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a Software Engineer focused on hardware test and automation for complex satellite subassemblies. In this role, you'll develop integrated operations and automation solutions, ensuring the reliability of software and hardware systems. You'll work collaboratively in a dynamic environment, creating modular software to enhance manufacturing processes and testing capabilities. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge technology that aims to revolutionize space exploration and make human life on Mars a reality. If you're passionate about engineering and eager to tackle challenging problems, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Health Coverage

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Flexible Work Hours

Extended Hours Compensation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in STEM or 2+ years of software development experience.
• Development experience in C, C++, or Python is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop automation software for manufacturing and engineering verification.
• Maintain and troubleshoot existing automation infrastructure.
• Define project plans and manage milestones for reliable test systems.

Skills

Python

C

C++

Linux

Windows

Network Troubleshooting

Automation Software Development

Signal Processing

Version Control

Agile Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Engineering

2+ years of professional software development experience

Tools

HITL (Hardware-in-the-loop)

GPIB

USB

TCP/IP

CAN bus

I2C

Modbus

Job description

Software Engineer, Hardware Test & Automation (Starlink Subassemblies)

Join to apply for the Software Engineer, Hardware Test & Automation (Starlink Subassemblies) role at SpaceX

About SpaceX

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.

Role Overview

As a Software Engineer in Starlink, your focus will be on developing integrated operations and automation for complex subassemblies and components that bring the Starlink Satellite to life. You will be responsible for systems that enable rapid development and accurate testing of Starlink software and hardware, with a continual focus on design, development, and building innovative test systems, from hardware designs to software infrastructure. Our engineers serve as software and hardware experts for the flight control devices and mechanisms that drive the critical capabilities on our satellites - from attitude determination/control systems to Space Lasers and more. We design software and build systems that test flight components for maximum performance and reliability in extreme environments, with mission success being imperative.

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here – engineers on this team are curious, collaborative, love to learn new things, and work effectively in a dynamic environment to deliver high-impact technology on a massive scale.

Responsibilities

• Develop modular, reusable test and automation software in Python and similar languages for manufacturing and engineering design verification.
• Write automation software to interact with flight hardware, test equipment, instrumentation, and production documentation systems.
• Develop software that allows for test execution across multiple environments: hardware-in-the-loop (HITL, HIL) and virtualized hardware simulations.
• Develop custom automation solutions to engineering and manufacturing challenges using a combination of embedded electronics and innovative hardware.
• Develop algorithms to analyze complex test data to determine if components have met acceptance criteria.
• Maintain and troubleshoot existing automation infrastructure and work with partner teams to determine and correct root causes of failures.
• Define and implement project plans, manage milestones, and hold reviews to ensure reliable test systems are delivered to production.
• Invent tools that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree.
• Development experience in C, C++, or Python.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Extensive knowledge of Linux/Windows operating systems, computer architecture, and networks.
• Experience troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware such as network devices and lab instrumentation.
• Experience developing application, test, or automation software in an interdisciplinary production environment.
• Experience with numerical analysis techniques and signal processing in multiple domains.
• Experience with configuration management, version control software, continuous integration, and agile development.
• Extensive knowledge of digital and analog interfaces including GPIB, USB, VISA, TCP/IP, VLAN, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, Modbus, and analog-to-digital conversion.
• Cross-context test design skills, ranging from simple unit tests to integrated hardware-in-the-loop regression and exploratory tests.
• Experience working with spacecraft, automotive, or other industrial hardware, such as high-powered electro-mechanical systems and ground-support equipment.
• Ability to work independently or in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively in a solution-oriented manner.
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, RF communications, optics, math, and physics.

Additional Requirements

• Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay range varies based on experience and level, with additional incentives and comprehensive benefits including health coverage, 401(k), paid time off, and more.

ITAR Requirements

Applicants must meet U.S. export control regulations, including citizenship or legal residency status.

Equal Opportunity Employment

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants requiring assistance during the application process.