SpaceX
Software Engineer (Starshield) - Top Secret Clearance
About this role
SpaceX seeks software engineers to develop secure, reliable systems controlling thousands of satellites for national security missions. You'll work across the full software lifecycle—from design through on-orbit deployment—on embedded systems, cryptography, networking, and ground control software using C++, Linux, and modern DevOps tools.
What you'll do
- Design and develop highly reliable C++ software for satellite control systems across multiple processor architectures
- Own software projects end-to-end: requirements gathering, prototyping, development, testing, and on-orbit rollout
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to build next-generation satellite capabilities and sensor systems
- Develop embedded cryptography applications for secure satellite and ground operations
- Build automated ground systems for data processing and satellite command and control
- Create simulation and testing tools for hardware-in-the-loop and vehicle-in-the-loop validation
What they're looking for
- C++ or Rust programming
- Linux-based embedded systems development
- Computer architecture and network fundamentals
- Software debugging and testing methodologies
- Docker/Kubernetes containerization
- Relational databases (PostgreSQL, CockroachDB)
- Cryptography applications
- Multi-processor systems (ARM, PowerPC, x86)
Benefits
- Competitive salary: $125k–$175k based on level
- Work on mission-critical national security technology
- End-to-end ownership of software systems
- Collaborative, dynamic team environment
- Opportunity to influence satellite and space technology innovation
- Flexible professional backgrounds welcome (no aerospace experience required)
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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 complex embedded system you've developed in C or C++—what were the key challenges and how did you solve them?
- Have you worked with security-critical or mission-critical software? What practices did you use to ensure reliability?