SpaceX

Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)

SpaceX$100K — $130K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or a related field; or 2+ years of relevant software development experience.
  • Proficient in C, C++, Python, and/or Rust development.

Responsibilities

  • Maintain in-house branches of open-source software like Linux and Buildroot.
  • Ensure secure boot and runtime security for Linux-based satellite systems.
  • Manage spacecraft Ethernet network connectivity.
  • Develop and test spacecraft software update processes.
  • Provide ongoing support for in-house System on Chip and peripheral hardware.
  • Enhance OS/platform-specific test infrastructure.
  • Create and support device drivers for both third-party and in-house components.
  • Collaborate with other engineering teams to transition hardware from prototypes to orbital operations.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in the aerospace industry.
  • Engage in challenging engineering tasks with significant global impact.
  • Collaborative environment working alongside experts from various fields.
  • Participate in the full software lifecycle, ensuring ownership and variety in projects.
  • Potential for rapid career growth and skill enhancement in advanced technologies.
Full Job Description
EMBEDDED SOFTWARE ENGINEER, OS/PLATFORM (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 Embedded 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.


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. a7 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

About SpaceX

SpaceX is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk. The company designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. SpaceX has developed the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Dragon spacecraft. The company was founded with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. SpaceX has achieved several milestones in spaceflight, including the first privately-funded liquid-propellant rocket to reach orbit, the first privately-funded company to send a spacecraft to the International Space Station, and the first privately-funded company to send a human-rated spacecraft to orbit.
Learn more about SpaceX
Size
8,000 employees
Industry
Founded
2002

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