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)

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?