SpaceX
Software Engineer, Product Development (Starshield)
About this role
Join SpaceX's Starshield team to develop mission-critical software for satellite constellations supporting national security. You'll own features end-to-end—from design through on-orbit deployment—working on embedded systems, secure networks, and ground control software that directly impact intelligence and defense operations.
What you'll do
- Develop reliable Linux-based C++ software for satellite and ground systems across multiple processor architectures
- Own software features from requirements and prototyping through production deployment and on-orbit operations
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design next-generation satellite capabilities including sensors and inter-satellite communications
- Engage directly with defense and intelligence customers to understand needs and deliver quality products
- Build embedded cryptography systems, high-performance networks, and automated ground control software
- Create models, simulations, and testing tools for hardware-in-the-loop and vehicle-in-the-loop validation
What they're looking for
- C++ or Rust development
- Linux systems programming
- Embedded systems and microcontroller development
- Computer architecture and networking fundamentals
- Software testing and debugging
- Docker/Kubernetes containerization
- Relational databases (PostgreSQL, CockroachDB)
- Cryptography or security-focused software
Benefits
- Competitive salary ($125k–$175k depending on level)
- Hands-on ownership of critical national security technology
- Work with cutting-edge satellite and space systems
- Direct customer engagement and meaningful impact
- Collaborative, dynamic environment with fresh perspectives welcomed
- Opportunity to shape next-generation space capabilities
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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
- Walk us through a software project you owned end-to-end—what was your biggest challenge and how did you solve it?
- Describe your experience with C++ and embedded systems. Have you worked with constrained environments or low-level hardware?