Lead Software Architect

2 weeks ago


Hawthorne, California, United States SpaceX Full time

At SpaceX, we are driven by the vision of making humanity a multi-planetary species. Our mission involves developing groundbreaking technologies that will facilitate human life on Mars and beyond.

LEAD SOFTWARE ARCHITECT (STARSHIELD)

Starshield utilizes the advanced capabilities of SpaceX's Starlink technology to bolster national security initiatives. While Starlink serves consumer and commercial sectors, Starshield is tailored for governmental applications, focusing initially on earth observation, secure communications, and hosted payloads.

The Starshield software division is dedicated to constructing robust in-space mesh networks, devising secure systems to ensure reliable access to space, and innovating next-generation communication and sensing software. We encourage engineers from diverse backgrounds to contribute their unique perspectives. We seek passionate problem solvers eager to make a significant impact on an inspiring mission. As our team grows, we are looking for adaptable, driven, and collaborative engineers.

Our team plays a crucial role in the design of vehicle systems throughout all development stages. We create tools that enhance our efficiency and enable us to develop software systems that are secure, dependable, and autonomous. Our software engineers oversee the entire software lifecycle, including development, testing, and operational support.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop highly reliable software systems to manage numerous satellites in low earth orbit.
  • Utilize software design to enhance satellite constellation performance, security, and availability to accommodate a diverse range of users.
  • Guide your software from inception to completion: identifying core requirements, prototyping, developing, testing, and supporting on-orbit deployment.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to conceptualize, design, and construct the next generation of satellite capabilities, including cutting-edge sensors and inter-satellite communication systems.

Within the Starshield software team, various roles focus on different areas. Candidates will be assessed for specific roles based on hiring needs and qualifications. Role-specific responsibilities may include:

  • Crafting high-quality Linux-based C++ software for various processors and microcontrollers (e.g., ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.).
  • Implementing networking technologies to facilitate data transfer across satellites, ground operations centers, and end-users.
  • Creating automated ground-based software systems that integrate intelligent data processing with satellite command and control.
  • Developing models and simulations for testing flight-like vehicle software, analyzing network performance, or engaging in research and development projects.
  • Building tools that enable test execution across multiple environments: virtualized hardware, real hardware-in-the-loop, and vehicle-in-the-loop testing.
  • Innovating systems that allow for more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release framework.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 8+ years of professional experience in software development with a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related STEM field; OR 10+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree.
  • 6+ years of development experience in C/C++ and Python.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience in developing and deploying software utilized in real-world applications.
  • Strong foundational knowledge of computer architecture and networking.
  • Proficient in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
  • Able to work effectively and creatively in a dynamic environment with evolving needs and requirements.
  • Capable of working independently and collaboratively, taking initiative, and communicating effectively.
  • Possession of an active Top Secret clearance, or the willingness to obtain one, is desirable but not mandatory.

Some preferred skills and experience may vary based on the specific team within flight software and could include:

  • Familiarity with networking protocols (TCP, UDP, etc.).
  • Experience in developing within the Linux kernel.
  • Expertise in C++ for high-performance systems.
  • Experience with image data processing and machine learning.
  • Strong background in mathematics and physics.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Note that an active clearance may provide opportunities to work on sensitive missions; if so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as necessary.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Lead Software Architect: $200,000 - $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 job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is only one component of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also qualify for long-term incentives, such as company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, along with potential discretionary bonuses and the opportunity to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. 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 are also included. You will accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays annually. Exempt employees are entitled to 5 days of sick leave per year.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is based on merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status.



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