Software Engineer (Starshield)

United States Digital Space LLC; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

Vacation and paid holidays

Job summary

United States Digital Space LLC is seeking a Software Engineer (Starshield) to develop software systems that control satellite constellations. The role offers opportunities to work with interdisciplinary teams on cutting-edge technology while leveraging your skills in C++, Python, and experience in reliable aerospace systems.

This position requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic environment, while obtaining necessary security clearances as part of the role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development.
• Development experience in C, C++, or Python.
• Experience developing high-quality software used in real-world applications.

Responsibilities

• Create highly reliable software systems controlling satellites in low Earth orbit.
• Implement software design for satellite constellation performance, security, and availability.
• Develop tools for test execution across various environments.

Skills

C++

Python

Problem-solving

Debugging

Performance optimization

Networking knowledge

Math and physics background

Education

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

Tools

Linux

ARM

PowerPC

x86

Job description

The company 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 the company is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

Software Engineer (Starshield)

Starshield leverages the company’s Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads.

The Starshield software team is building highly reliable in‑space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next‑gen communication and sensing software, and more. Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here – we want our engineers to bring fresh ideas from all areas. We look for engineers who love solving problems and seek to make an impact on an inspiring mission. As we expand this team, we’re looking for versatile, motivated, and collaborative engineers.

Our team is involved in designing the vehicle systems at every phase of development. We build tools that enable us to work more efficiently, and that help us build software systems that are secure, reliable, and autonomous. Our software engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and operational support.

Responsibilities

• Create highly reliable software systems that control hundreds of satellites in low Earth orbit
• Leverage software design to improve satellite constellation performance, security, and availability to meet the needs of a wide range of users
• See your software through from start to finish: from figuring out the core needs to prototyping, developing, and testing; to on‑orbit rollout and beyond
• Work with interdisciplinary teams to brainstorm, design, and build the next generation of satellite capabilities, from cutting‑edge sensors and inter‑satellite lasers to space‑based cloud compute

There are several roles within the Starshield software team with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific focus areas based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific role responsibilities may include:

• Write high quality Linux‑based C++ software for common processors and microcontrollers (e.g. ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.)
• Implement networking technologies to direct data across a variety of satellites, ground operations centers, and users
• Build automated ground‑based software systems that integrate smart data processing with command and control of the satellites
• Develop models and simulations for flight‑like vehicle software testing, network performance analysis, or research & development projects
• Develop tools that allow for test execution across multiple environments: virtualized hardware, real hardware‑in‑the‑loop, and even vehicle‑in‑the‑loop testing
• Invent new systems that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
• Development experience in C, C++, or Python or full‑stack software development experience

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Developed and deployed software that has been used in real‑world applications and projects
• Solid fundamental knowledge of computer architecture and networks
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
• Ability to work effectively and creatively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
• Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance

Some preferred skills and experience depend on the specific team within flight software and may include:

• Experience with networking protocols (TCP, UDP, etc.)
• Experience developing in the Linux kernel
• Experience in C++ for high performance systems
• Experience with image data processing and machine learning
• Strong background in math and physics

Additional Requirements

• This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, the company reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

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 the company. 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 accrue paid sick leave pursuant to company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with the company 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 the company’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process, should contact the Human Resources department.