Data Engineer, Ground Network Engineering (Gateway)

Data Engineer, Ground Network Engineering (Gateway)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

Data Engineer, Ground Network Engineering (Gateway)

This hybrid role sits at the intersection of data engineering, supply chain, and infrastructure operations to support the global deployment and critical operational reliability of Starlink's ground network. As we continue to scale, the Data Engineer will own the software systems, data pipelines, forecasting models, and logistics execution needed to make deploying and maintaining Starlink infrastructure around the world fast, predictable, and reliable. This is not just a data role or an operations role, this is the person who will help us build a smarter, more automated, and more resilient global infrastructure system through software and data.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end workflow deployment and optimization of Starlink Ground Network processes
• Develop and automate systems to optimize antenna, optical hardware, and critical spare part flow through inventory and logistics accounting for inventory stock levels, telemetry data, and predictive failure models
• Build and maintain forecasting engines to predict hardware demand from deployment planning, team and program targets
• Architect backend services, APIs, and workflows to integrate planning, logistics, and inventory systems (Warpdrive ERP/MRP, 3rd party logistics service provider's APIs)
• Automate supply chain processes, including inventory syncs, order creation, kitting, shipment validation, and spares replenishment
• Refactor and scale data ingestion and delivery systems to handle increased deployment volume and geographic expansion
• Create tools and dashboards to track real-time metrics on shipments, inventory, deployment timelines, and reliability
• Identify and resolve inefficiencies in material flow and logistics, developing standardized processes and key performance indicators
• Develop and monitor performance metrics for build, deployment, and ongoing maintenance/reliability of the Ground Network hardware fleet (antennas, network/optical devices)
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate engineering needs into system requirements and drive adoption
• Support emergency deployments and incident response by managing critical operational and data workflows

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or related field
• Experience in Python or SQL

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with inventory systems, logistics workflows, and/or supply chain tooling
• Proficient in C#, C++, or Angular
• Basic understanding of Kubernetes concepts, including pods, services, deployments, and namespaces
• Prior success in delivering strong data visualizations using tools such as PowerBI, Grafana, Metabase or other real-time metrics systems
• Experience building backend services using APIs (Celery, FastAPI, Django, or similar frameworks) and system-to-system data exchange in logistics and supply chain environments
• Proven track record developing custom forecasting tools and planning logic
• Knowledge of MRP/ERP, WMS, or other supply chain systems
• Strong problem-solving skills and comfort working in ambiguous environments with evolving requirements
• Excellent communication and cross-functional program management skills

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work extended hours or weekends to meet deployment deadlines
• Must be available to travel up to 25% to support site launches, FSL integrations, or incident response

Compensation and Benefits:

Pay range:

Gateway Site Develop Engineer/Level I: $122,500.00 - $145,000.00/per year

Gateway Site Develop Engineer/Level II: $140,000.00 - $170,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k)-retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year. Company shuttles are offered to employees for round trip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.