Principal Software Engineer; Starlink Ground Network

Principal Software Engineer (Starlink Ground Network)

Space

X 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 Space

X is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. As part of the Starlink program, a world‑class satellite constellation that provides fast, reliable internet to over 6 million users worldwide, we design, build, test and operate all parts of the system—from thousands of satellites to consumer receivers and the software that brings it all together.

As a Principal Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will be solving challenges underpinning every aspect of the program’s growth. You will work on next‑generation networking technologies, infrastructure and tooling for rapid development and deployment, and measurement system software and hardware. Your work will directly impact the reliability, scalability, and performance of the global, satellite‑based, software‑defined network.

• Develop highly reliable and available software systems for the low‑latency, high‑capacity satellite‑based global network.
• Design, implement and maintain a highly available, fault‑tolerant network that operates for long periods with minimal maintenance at scale.
• Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews.
• Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints.
• Collaborate with other engineers to plan and organize the development of our products.

• Write high‑quality Linux‑based software for common processors and microcontrollers (e.g. ARM, Power
  
  PC, x86).
• Invent new tools for frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system.
• Build tools that enable test execution across virtualized hardware, real hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulations, and on‑orbit testing.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 7+ years of professional development experience in C, C++, Python, or mobile development languages; or 9+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree.
• Development experience in C, C++, or Python.

• Experience developing, debugging, and deploying software used in real‑world applications.
• Creative problem‑solving with strong analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
• Solid knowledge of networks, electronics, math, and physics.
• Strong debugging, performance optimization, and unit‑testing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs.
• Experience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP).
• Experience in C++ for high‑performance systems.
• Experience with security issues in distributed systems and internet services.
• Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment, and continuous monitoring.

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Pay Range:
Software Engineer/Principal – $ – $ per year. Base salary is one part of your total rewards package. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, company stock, stock options, long‑term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits include medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan;

short‑ and long‑term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; discounts and perks; 3 weeks of paid vacation; 10+ paid holidays; and company shuttles for round‑trip travel from select Seattle locations to the Space

X Redmond office.

Learn more about the ITAR here.

Space

X is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Space

X 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 Space

X’s Aff… and applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to