Principal Software Engineer (Starlink Ground Network)

Principal Software Engineer (Starlink Ground Network)

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.

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 6M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Principal Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will be solving challenges underpinning every aspect of the program's growth. The areas you could have an impact on could include, but are not limited to, building:

• Next-generation networking technologies to direct data through an ever-changing network of satellites, ground stations, and users.
• Infrastructure and tools to enable rapid development and reliable deployment of our code to dynamic production environments.
• Measurement system software and hardware, supporting our in-house network platform designs.

Our software engineers are responsible for the complete lifecycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and support.

Responsibilities:

• Develop highly reliable and available software systems for our low latency, high capacity satellite-based global software-defined network.
• Design and implement a highly available, fault-tolerant network that operates for long periods of time with minimal maintenance at scale.
• Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews.
• Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints.
• Collaborate with other engineers to plan and organize the development of our products.

There are several sub-teams within Starlink software with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific teams based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific team responsibilities might include:

• Write high-quality Linux based software for common processors and microcontrollers (e.g. ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.)
• Invent new tools that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system.
• Develop tools that allow for test execution across multiple environments: virtualized hardware, real hardware-in-the-loop simulations, and on-orbit testing.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 7+ years of professional development experience in C, C++, Python, or mobile development languages; or 9+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of degree.
• Development experience in C, C++, or python.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Developed, debugged, and deployed software that has been used in real-world applications/projects.
• Creative approach to problem-solving, exceptional analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals.
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, math, and physics.
• Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.

Some preferred skills and experience depend on the specific team within Starlink software, and may include:

• Experience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, etc.)
• Experience in C++ for high-performance systems.
• Experience with security issues associated with distributed systems and internet services.
• Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Compensation and Benefits:

Pay Range:

Software Engineer/Principal: $200,000.00 - $270,000.00/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. Company shuttles are offered to employees for round trip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.