Sr. Sensor Development Engineer (Starship)

SpaceX; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation and holidays

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Senior Sensor Development Engineer in Hawthorne, California, to work on navigation sensors critical for future Mars missions. This role involves environmental testing, data analysis, and calibration of inertial sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes.

Ideal candidates will have extensive experience with inertial sensors and software development skills in Python and C/C++. A Bachelor’s degree and expertise in sensor technologies are required.

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $140,000 to $205,000/year along with comprehensive benefits including medical coverage, retirement plans, and stock options.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience with inertial sensors.
• Experience in testing and calibrating sensors.
• Strong documentation skills and experience working in teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct environmental characterization of inertial sensors.
• Analyze test data and document results.
• Develop sensor calibration processes.

Skills

Software development in Python

C/C++ programming

Knowledge of inertial sensors

Communication skills

Teamwork in fast-paced environments

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering or Physics

Master of Science in relevant field

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.

SR. SENSOR DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (STARSHIP)

The Sensor Development team designs, builds, and tests innovative sensing solutions that are critical to making life on Mars possible. This Senior Sensor Development Engineer will work on this highly interdisciplinary team to characterize navigation sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, and develop and maintain integrated solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct environmental characterization of inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) to ensure all performance and flight-worthiness requirements are met.
• Analyze test data and document results.
• Develop sensor calibration processes.
• Ensure timely production and delivery for vehicle integration.
• Conduct component qualification testing.
• Identify and implement hardware and software upgrades.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering or Physics with 5+ years of professional experience.
• 3+ years of experience working on inertial sensors.
• Software development experience in Python and C/C++.
• Knowledge of various sensing technologies available and experience in testing, calibrating, and qualifying inertial navigation sensors.
• Familiarity with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock).

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Master of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering or Physics.
• 5+ years of experience working on inertial sensors.
• Extensive knowledge of navigation‑grade inertial sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers) from design through test.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills.
• Proven track record of successful product ownership and teamwork in fast‑paced environments.

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.

Compensation And Benefits

Pay Range:

Senior: $140,000.00 - $205,000.00/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 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 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 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].