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Software Engineer, Product Development (Starshield)

SpaceX· Starshield Software Engineering
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Hawthorne, CA$125k - $175kfull-timePosted 3mo ago

About the role

Software engineer role within the Starshield program focused on embedded systems, in-space sensing, and secure data delivery for national security. Hands-on development across the software life cycle, from design to on-orbit rollout, with opportunities to influence end outcomes.

Responsibilities

  • Create highly reliable software systems that control thousands of satellites in low earth orbit
  • 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
  • Work directly with end customers to deliver quality products and data to meet their needs
  • Write high quality Linux-based C++ software for common processors and micro controllers (e.g. ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.)
  • Develop novel embedded cryptography applications for satellites and ground equipment
  • Develop highly performant networks to connect sensor data to end 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

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 Rust

Skills

Required:Linux-based C++ programming
Nice to have:Embedded cryptographyNetworkingGround system developmentModeling and simulationsTest automation across environments

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation and 10+ paid holidays per year
  • Paid sick leave policy
  • Employee stock purchase plan and potential long-term incentives/bonuses
  • Discounts and other perks
  • 10% clearance differential for active clearances (up to $20,000 annually)
Last updated Jul 8, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About SpaceX

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