About the job
At SpaceX, we believe in a future where humanity explores the stars. We are actively developing innovative technologies to make this vision a reality, with the ultimate aim of enabling human life on Mars.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, EMBEDDED SOFTWARE (STARSHIELD)
The Starshield mission is dedicated to bolstering national security by delivering timely and reliable information. Our partners in the intelligence and defense sectors require cutting-edge technology that is developed and deployed quickly and iteratively. We are committed to providing significant new capabilities through continuous software innovation and new hardware development.
The Starshield Software team is responsible for creating software that controls satellites, operates sensors, and establishes secure end-to-end communication links on embedded hardware systems. Our engineers are hands-on, developing embedded systems, testing new hardware, and collaborating directly with end users to understand their unique requirements.
Software engineers are involved in all stages of the design process for new technologies. We maintain our software systems in production, whether part of our distributed ground network or the software operating on our satellites. We seek engineers who are eager to write their own code, test their systems, and have a significant influence on outcomes. Aerospace or satellite experience is not a requirement; we welcome fresh ideas from diverse software backgrounds. We look for problem solvers who are passionate about making an impact on our inspiring mission of enhancing national security. Our ideal candidates are versatile, motivated, and collaborative.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop high-reliability software systems that control thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit.
- Lead your software projects from inception to completion: identifying core needs, prototyping, developing, testing, and rolling out systems in orbit.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design and build the next generation of satellite capabilities, including cutting-edge sensors and inter-satellite lasers, as well as space-based cloud computing.
- Work directly with end customers to deliver high-quality products and data tailored to their needs.
There are multiple positions available within the Starshield software team, each with distinct focus areas. Candidates will interview for specific roles based on hiring needs and qualifications.

