Software Engineer, C++ (Raptor)

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.

We are looking for exceptional C++ software engineers who thrive on building high-performance, reliable systems that directly impact production speed and quality. Our team develops the core real-time software that powers advanced metal additive manufacturing machines for Raptor engines. In this role, you will own critical software across controls, data acquisition, build logic, and in-situ monitoring — turning complex engineering designs into flight-ready hardware at scale. You will architect production-grade C++ systems that push the limits of speed, precision, and reliability in one of the world’s most demanding manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Architect and develop high-performance C++ software for production-scale manufacturing systems
• Design and implement real-time control software, data acquisition pipelines, and monitoring algorithms
• Collaborate closely with controls, automation, and hardware engineers to integrate software with motion systems, sensors, and laser hardware
• Continuously improve system reliability, speed, and quality through elegant software solutions
• Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and architecture discussions to maintain exceptional code quality and best practices
• Provide first-principles solutions to production engineering challenges, rapidly iterating from concept to deployed software

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or related STEM discipline and 2+ years of professional software development experience; OR 4+ years of professional C++ development experience in lieu of a degree
• Strong experience writing production-grade, high-performance C++ code
• Experience with modern CI/CD tools and Linux environments

Skills

• Experience with real-time or embedded systems development
• Familiarity with libraries such as QT, Boost, VTK, CUDA, or build tools like CMake
• Experience with microcontrollers, FPGAs, or hardware-software integration
• Background in manufacturing systems, controls software, or additive manufacturing processes (laser powder bed fusion or similar)

Pay

• Level I: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00 per year
• Level II: $140,000.00 - $170,000.00 per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX.

Benefits

• Long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
• Potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
• Short and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Various discounts and perks
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 10 or more paid holidays per year
• Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy

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