SpaceX
Software Engineer, High Performance Computing
About this role
SpaceX seeks a Software Engineer for their Starshield program to develop high-performance, reliable software systems controlling satellite constellations in low Earth orbit. You'll work across the full software lifecycle—from design through on-orbit deployment—collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to build secure, autonomous systems for government national security applications.
What you'll do
- Design and develop high-reliability C++ software systems for satellite constellation control and management
- Implement networking technologies to direct data across satellites, ground operations, and end users
- Write Linux-based C++ code for diverse processors (ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.)
- Build automated ground software for data processing, command, and satellite control
- Develop models, simulations, and testing tools spanning virtualized, hardware-in-the-loop, and vehicle-in-the-loop environments
- Create continuous integration and deployment systems to enable frequent, reliable software updates
What they're looking for
- C++ programming for high-performance systems
- Linux kernel and systems development
- Computer architecture and networking fundamentals
- Debugging and performance optimization
- Networking protocols (TCP, UDP, etc.)
- Unit testing and test automation
- Ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI security clearance
- Image processing or machine learning (preferred)
Benefits
- Work on cutting-edge aerospace technology with direct mission impact
- Full software lifecycle ownership from concept to on-orbit operations
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on next-generation space capabilities
- Access to real-world deployment and testing at scale
- Exposure to emerging technologies like inter-satellite lasers and space-based computing
- Location in Hawthorne, CA near SpaceX headquarters
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SpaceX
SpaceX develops advanced spacecraft and satellite systems, including the Starshield government satellite constellation and Starfall re-entry cargo capsule for global delivery. The company is hiring engineers in avionics integration, software test automation, mechanical design, and hardware reliability to validate flight-critical systems and ensure mission success.
- Website
- spacex.com
Likely interview questions
- Tell us about a C++ project you developed that was deployed in a real-world production environment—what challenges did you face?
- How have you approached debugging and optimizing performance-critical systems in the past?