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

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?