SpaceX
Software Engineer, Tracking (Starshield)
About this role
SpaceX seeks a software engineer for Starshield's tracking and GNC systems to build distributed software tools for orbital prediction, payload management, and constellation analysis. You'll own the complete lifecycle of mission-critical systems supporting government space operations, from prototyping through production deployment.
What you'll do
- Build software tools and analysis scenarios to evaluate system performance for large spacecraft constellations
- Develop prototypes that validate design concepts and quantify technical constraints for orbital systems
- Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to plan and coordinate product development
- Manage software from requirements definition through prototyping, development, testing, and operational support
- Create analysis pipelines that verify fleet systems are functioning correctly in orbit
What they're looking for
- C++ or Python software development
- Distributed systems architecture and design
- Docker and Kubernetes containerization
- Database systems (PostgreSQL, CockroachDB)
- Version control, CI/CD, testing, and monitoring practices
- Performance profiling and optimization
- Mathematics and physics fundamentals
- Satellite or spacecraft systems experience
Benefits
- Base salary: $125,000–$195,000 depending on level and experience
- Long-term stock incentives and discretionary bonuses
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions
- 3 weeks paid vacation plus 10+ paid holidays annually
- 10% salary differential (up to $20k/year) for active security clearance
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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 building or working with distributed systems at scale—what were the key challenges you solved?
- Tell us about a project where you took a piece of software from initial requirements through production. What did you learn?