SpaceX
Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)
About this role
SpaceX seeks an Embedded Software Engineer for Starlink's OS/Platform team in Redmond, WA to develop and maintain Linux-based software for satellites and ground systems, including bootloaders, kernel customization, secure boot, and device drivers. You'll work across the complete software lifecycle—from early-stage silicon bringup to orbital operations—collaborating with hardware and application teams to deliver deterministic, secure, and performant platforms.
What you'll do
- Maintain and update proprietary Linux branches, Buildroot, and u-boot for satellite systems
- Implement secure boot and runtime security mechanisms for Linux-based satellite components
- Manage spacecraft Ethernet networking and connectivity infrastructure
- Develop, deploy, and test over-the-air software update processes for satellites
- Support custom System-on-Chip components and peripherals throughout their lifecycle
- Develop and maintain device drivers for third-party and in-house hardware components
What they're looking for
- C, C++, Python, or Rust development
- Linux kernel customization and potentially upstream contributions
- Linux networking stack knowledge
- ARM embedded systems experience
- Secure boot architecture and implementation
- Debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing
- Continuous integration, build systems, and deployment infrastructure
- Computer architecture and low-level system design
Benefits
- Base salary $125,000–$200,000 depending on level and qualifications
- Long-term stock incentives and discretionary bonuses
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- 3 weeks paid vacation and 10+ paid holidays annually
- Paid parental leave, disability insurance, company shuttle service from Seattle
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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
- Describe your experience customizing or maintaining Linux kernel branches for embedded systems—what challenges did you face and how did you solve them?
- Walk us through your approach to implementing secure boot on a resource-constrained embedded platform.