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Software Engineer (Starshield) - Top Secret Clearance

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

About the role

Software engineer role focused on developing secure, embedded software for SpaceX Starshield satellites and ground infrastructure, with opportunities to work across design, prototyping, testing, and on-orbit rollout in a high-security, national-security context.

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
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance

Skills

Required:CC++
Nice to have:Rust

Benefits

  • Long-term incentives including stock or long-term cash awards
  • Discretionary bonuses and Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Paid sick leave per company policy
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation and 10+ paid holidays per year
  • 3% to 10%+ depending on role and location considerations
  • Clearance-related 10% differential up to $20,000 annually for active clearances
Last updated Jul 8, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About SpaceX

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