Sr. Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP (SpaceX) is seeking a Sr. Embedded Software Engineer in Bastrop, TX to develop software for Starlink's innovative satellite systems. This role emphasizes software development from initial bootloaders to secure, efficient applications for Linux-based systems.

The ideal candidate will possess strong embedded systems experience, particularly with programming in C/C++ and a degree in a STEM field, while contributing to challenges that shape the future of global internet connectivity.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in software engineering, or 7+ years in software development.
• Experience in development with languages such as C, C++, Python and/or Rust.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update in-house branches of OSS software.
• Support secure boot and runtime security of Linux based components.
• Develop, deploy and test spacecraft software update process.
• Interface with engineers to bring hardware from prototype stage to operations.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Rust

Linux networking stack

Computer architecture

ARM embedded system

Debugging

Performance optimization

Unit testing

Communication skills

Education

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

Job description

Sr. Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX

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.

At SpaceX, we’re 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 and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best‑in‑class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Sr. Embedded Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will be solving challenges underpinning every aspect of the program’s growth. The areas you could have an impact on could include, but are not limited to:

• Bringing up next generation space grade silicon, including in house designed system on chip and peripherals.
• Develop software from the early stage boot loaders to business logic with an emphasis on deterministic, secure, and performant platform for all of SpaceX Linux based spacecraft and grounds‑based components.
• Infrastructure and tools to enable rapid development and testing of new features for all OS/platform features.

Our software engineers are responsible for the complete lifecycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and support.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update in house branches of OSS software such as Linux, Buildroot, and u-boot.
• Support secureboot and runtime security of all Linux based satellite components.
• Maintain the spacecraft Ethernet network and connectivity.
• Develop, deploy and test spacecraft software update process.
• Support in‑house System on Chip and peripheral through the life‑cycle of the part.
• Support OS/Platform specific test infrastructure.
• Development and support device drivers for third party and in‑house components.
• Be the first software team to receive new satellite components.
• Interface with Silicon, Electrical, and Application Software Engineers to bring hardware from prototype stage to on or‑orbit operations.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or a STEM discipline and 5+ years of professional experience in software engineering; OR 7+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree.
• Development experience in C, C++, python and/or rust.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of networking and Linux networking stack.
• Good knowledge of computer architecture and modern secure boot flows.
• Experience with ARM embedded system.
• Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring.
• Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• 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.

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 affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].