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

Paid parental leave

Three weeks paid vacation, ten or more paid holidays

Company shuttle from Seattle to Redmond office

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is seeking a Software Engineer in Redmond, WA. This role focuses on developing cutting-edge real-time software for advanced global connectivity via satellites. Ideal candidates have a Bachelor’s in a related field and experience with networking protocols and C++. The compensation ranges from $125,000 to $175,000 per year, with additional benefits including stock options, comprehensive medical coverage, and generous vacation time.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required.
• Experience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, etc.).
• Experience writing software on embedded devices.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop real-time software for network switches, servers, ground antennas, and satellites.
• Manage the software lifecycle from design to support.
• Develop tools for testing and performance monitoring.
• Innovate networking technologies for satellite data management.

Skills

Networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP)

Operating systems

Embedded devices

C++

Network optimization

Security issues with distributed systems

Service provider networks

Education

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

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.

As a Software Engineer on the Starlink Enterprise Product team you will define, build, and deploy product features and capabilities that unlock new opportunities to advance global connectivity. Your software will have a meaningful and measurable impact in areas such as aviation, maritime, transportation, healthcare, remote communities, research operations, media broadcast, datacenters, and more.

Responsibilities

• Develop highly reliable real‑time software running on network switches, servers, ground antennas, and satellites to optimize network performance to support the most demanding applications and environments.
• Own the impact of the software you create over its complete lifecycle including architecture design, implementation, testing, and support. Incorporate learnings from real‑world deployment to drive continual improvement.
• Develop tools where needed to support testing, performance monitoring and troubleshooting of the systems that depend on your software.
• Build prototypes and manage experiments to prove out key design concepts.
• Innovate next‑generation networking technologies to direct data through an ever‑changing network of satellites, ground stations, and users.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline.
• Experience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, etc.) and operating systems.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience writing software on embedded devices.
• Experience writing C++ in a production environment.
• Experience owning development, testing, and deployment of software for real‑world applications.
• Experience developing software for network optimization, traffic shaping, or bandwidth management.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.
• Experience with security issues associated with distributed systems and internet services.
• Deep understanding of service provider networks including but not limited to:
  • Connectivity (Ethernet, IPv4, IPv6 and MPLS)
  • Routing (BGP, OSPF, IS‑IS)
  • Internet services (subscriber provisioning, BRAS, DNS, DHCP, NTP)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Compensation & Benefits

• 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, stock options, 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.

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.