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Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship)

Starbase, TX
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

As an engineer on the Starship software team, you will design, develop and test software that is used to control SpaceX flight systems for the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles. You will engage with other SpaceX software and hardware engineers to code highly reliable software that allows Starship to become an orbital vehicle. You will be responsible for the complete life cycle of the software you create, from development to testing to operation during a mission.

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving problems and want to make an impact on a super inspiring mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop highly reliable autonomous software systems and simulations to validate them
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Own all aspects of software development, including design, testing, and mission integration
  • Provide strong technical leadership, focus on continuous improvement

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline and 4+ years of professional experience in software development; OR 6+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
  • 4+ years of professional experience C++, Python, or Rust

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong software design and development skills
  • Experience with Rust
  • Working knowledge of control theory
  • Experience designing fault tolerant software
  • Thorough knowledge of computer architecture and networks
  • Knowledge of physics, math, and electronics
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends if needed to meet critical deadlines

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. Section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 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.

About SpaceX

SpaceX

SpaceX is one of the most influential aerospace companies in the world, transforming space launch, satellite communications, and deep-space transportation. Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX designs and manufactures advanced rockets and spacecraft, including Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship, alongside the Dragon spacecraft and the Starlink satellite internet constellation. The company plays a major role in U.S. space access, national security launch capabilities, and commercial space infrastructure.

For job seekers, SpaceX offers opportunities across some of the most demanding engineering disciplines in the industry, including aerospace engineering, propulsion, software development, avionics, manufacturing, robotics, materials science, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to engineers, technicians, and builders who want to work in a high-intensity environment focused on rapid iteration, vertical integration, and hands-on hardware development at scale.

Unlike traditional aerospace contractors that rely heavily on long development cycles, SpaceX operates with a fast-paced, vertically integrated engineering culture where teams design, build, test, and fly systems in rapid succession. Employees often work directly on flight hardware and production systems, contributing to programs that routinely push the boundaries of reusability, launch frequency, and cost reduction in space access.

As global demand for satellite communications, space infrastructure, and national security launch services continues to grow, SpaceX remains one of the most important employers in aerospace and defense-adjacent technology. For professionals seeking a highly challenging, mission-driven career at the cutting edge of spaceflight and advanced engineering, SpaceX stands out as one of the most ambitious and impactful companies in the world.

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