SpaceX Verified

Aerospace, Space Exploration, Telecommunications, Manufacturing

OS/Platform Software Engineer (Starlink)

Redmond, WAInternship$125,000–$165,000 /yrPosted 2 months ago

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Required skills

Linux
Buildroot
u-boot
secure boot
runtime security
Ethernet network
spacecraft software update
System on Chip
device drivers
C++

Nice to have

Linux Kernel upstreamed patches
networking
Linux networking stack
computer architecture
secure boot flows
ARM embedded systems

Role summary

SpaceX is seeking an OS/Platform Software Engineer for its Starlink program, the world's largest satellite internet constellation. This role involves developing and maintaining software for Linux-based spacecraft and ground components, focusing on deterministic, secure, and performant platforms. Responsibilities include working with bootloaders, security features, networking, and device drivers, interfacing with hardware and software teams throughout the product lifecycle. The position requires proficiency in C, C++, Python, or Rust, and offers opportunities to contribute to next-generation silicon bring-up and infrastructure development.

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.

OS/PLATFORM SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARLINK)

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 9M+ 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 an OS/Platform 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:

Bringing up next generation space grade silicon, including in house designed system on chip and peripherals.

Develop software from the early stage boot loaders to business logic with an emphasis on deterministic, secure, and performant platform for all of SpaceX Linux based spacecraft and grounds-based components.

Infrastructure and tools to enable rapid development and testing of new features for all OS/platform features.

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

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Maintain and update in house branches of OSS software such as Linux, Buildroot, and u-boot.

Support secureboot and runtime security of all Linux based satellite components.

Maintain the spacecraft Ethernet network and connectivity.

Develop, deploy and test spacecraft software update process.

Support in-house System on Chip and peripheral through the life-cycle of the part.

Support OS/Platform specific test infrastructure.

Development and support device drivers for third party and in-house components.

Be the first software team to receive new satellite components.

Interface with Silicon, Electrical, and Application Software Engineers to bring hardware from prototype stage to on on-orbit operations.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree (internship experience is applicable).

Development experience in C, C++, python and/or rust.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Linux Kernel Up streamed patches preferred.

Knowledge of networking and Linux networking stack.

Good knowledge of computer architecture and modern secure boot flows.

Experience with ARM embedded systems.

Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring.

Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.

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.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

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

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:Pay Range:Level 1: $125,000.00 - $165,000.00Level 2: $145,000.00 - $200,000.00

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 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. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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