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Aerospace, Space Exploration, Telecommunications, Manufacturing

New Graduate Engineer, GNC- '26/'27 (Starlink)

Bastrop, TXFull TimeJunior / Entry-levelPosted 2 months ago

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Required skills

Starlink
GNC
C++
Python
orbital mechanics
control theory
state estimation
spacecraft systems design
optimization
constellation design

Nice to have

debugged
deployed software
real world applications
creative approach
analytical skills
engineering fundamentals

Role summary

SpaceX is seeking new graduate engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development for the Starlink GNC team. This role involves developing autopilot algorithms for thousands of satellites and user terminals to provide high-speed broadband internet. Responsibilities include developing GNC algorithms, participating in code reviews, analyzing performance data, writing technical documentation, and supporting on-call operations. Candidates must have software development experience in C++ or Python and be graduating in 2026 or 2027. A Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics, or an engineering discipline is required.

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.

NEW GRADUATE ENGINEER, GNC - '26/'27 (STARLINK)

SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starlink guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team. Come help us write the autopilot algorithms for thousands of satellites (the world's largest constellation!) and more than two million user terminals, enabling access to high-speed broadband internet in all corners of the world.

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

Constellation design and optimization

Fleet management and satellite orbit transfer automation, including all supporting software infrastructure

Constellation-level and network-level analysis of both existing and proposed satellite systems

Satellite collision avoidance

Satellite attitude determination and control

Satellite orbit control, such as low thrust trajectory optimization and station-keeping

Precision state estimation and control of various network payloads (RF antennas, laser inter-satellite links)

RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards using C++ or Python; Starlink GNC Engineers write actual production code, not just prototypes for transcription by another team

Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews

Bulk data analysis to review performance data from various elements of the Starlink constellation and network

Write high quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis

Support your relevant on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites or reviewing network data to keep our network continuously operating at peak performance

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline

Software development experience in either C++ or Python

Graduating in the class of 2026 or 2027

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Some preferred skills and experience depend on the specific team within Starlink GNC.

Master's degree or PHD in an engineering discipline or physics

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

Cradle to grave development of three axis stabilized spacecraft incorporating momentum, magnetic, and propulsive control

Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping

Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation, and validation of the simulation's models

Experience with state estimation, particularly attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation

Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall

General familiarity with the disciplines necessary for spacecraft flight including; structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration. Practical experience in real world development of these systems is highly desired

Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction

Passion for advancing the commercial space industry

Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere

Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

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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