Jobs · Information Technology · Washington

Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)

SpaceX · Redmond, WA · 1 mo ago
On-siteInformation Technology$125k–$165k/yrFull-time

About the role

SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. As an OS/Platform Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will solve challenges underpinning every aspect of the program’s growth, including bringing up next‑generation space‑grade silicon, developing software from early‑stage boot loaders to business logic, and building infrastructure and tools for rapid development and testing of OS/platform features.

Responsibilities

  • Maintain and update in‑house branches of OSS software such as Linux, Buildroot, and U‑boot.
  • Support secure boot and runtime security of all Linux‑based satellite components.
  • Maintain the spacecraft Ethernet network and connectivity.
  • Develop, deploy, and test the spacecraft software update process.
  • Support in‑house System on Chip and peripheral throughout the part’s life‑cycle.
  • Support OS/Platform‑specific test infrastructure.
  • Develop 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 to on‑orbit operations.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or a science discipline — or 2+ years of professional software development experience (internship experience applicable).
  • Development experience in C, C++, Python, and/or Rust.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Linux kernel upstream patches preferred.
  • Knowledge of networking and the 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, and continuous monitoring.
  • Creative problem‑solving, strong analytical skills, and solid engineering fundamentals.
  • Strong debugging, performance‑optimization, and unit‑testing skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.

Additional Requirements

  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Pay

  • Level 1: $125,000 – $165,000
  • Level 2: $145,000 – $200,000
  • Base salary is determined case‑by‑case based on knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

  • Long‑term incentives (company stock or cash awards) and discretionary bonuses.
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with discounted purchase option.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Short‑ and long‑term disability insurance and life insurance.
  • Paid parental leave.
  • Three weeks of paid vacation plus 10+ paid holidays per year.
  • Paid sick time (Washington State compliance).
  • Company shuttles for round‑trip travel from select Seattle locations to the Redmond office (Monday‑Friday).
  • Various discounts and perks.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, an asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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