Software Engineer, Hardware Test & Automation (Starlink Aviation)

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.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, HARDWARE TEST & AUTOMATION (STARLINK AVIATION)

The Starlink Aviation team develops, tests, deploys, and operates the most advanced aviation internet system in the world. This role will task you with owning test software to verify the health and functionality of the Starlink Aviation devices (e.g. satellite antennas, wireless routers) that will be installed on a growing number of business and commercial jets globally. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of the Starlink Aviation and Network systems, requiring a rare cross-disciplinary perspective.

Testing is a fundamental quality check and last line of defense before our devices are installed for flight. You will have the unique opportunity to design and develop test software infrastructure that will validate the performance of these devices in a dynamic environment. You will be expected to create new test systems and infrastructure from the ground up including hardware, software, and the interface between the two. Additionally, our Software Test Engineers are a technical resource for fellow engineering, specialist, and technician colleagues driving improvements on the factory floor and influencing future device designs.

We are looking for people who excel at solving complex problems, maintain a high sense of urgency in their work, and contribute as a team player to build new capabilities and innovate in our testing approach.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop modular, reusable factory test and automation software in Python and similar languages to verify functionality of Starlink Aviation devices through the full life cycle of design, qualification, and production
• Write factory software to interact with devices under test, test equipment, instrumentation, and production documentation systems
• Develop custom automation solutions to engineering and manufacturing challenges to improve manufacturing yields and reduce production time
• Develop algorithms to analyze complex test data to determine if devices have met acceptance criteria
• Work with partner teams to determine and correct root cause of device software and hardware failures
• Create and maintain hardware-in-the-loop (HITL, HIL) continuous integration systems to screen for regressions of device software and factory software
• Define and implement project plans, manage milestones, and hold reviews to assure reliable test systems are delivered to production

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline
• 2+ years of software programming experience using Python, C, or similar (including internships, design/build/compete, collegiate project teams, etc)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience with Linux, Bash, virtual machines, containerization technologies (i.e. Docker, Kubernetes), and computer networking
• Understanding of software testing, continuous integration, build, deployment and monitoring
• Experience developing application, test, or automation software in an interdisciplinary environment
• Extensive knowledge with a range of digital and analog interfaces including GPIB, USB, VISA, TCP/IP, VLAN, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, Modbus, analog-to-digital conversion
• Experience troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware such as network devices and lab instrumentation
• Competency in systems including harnessing, avionics, instrumentation, radio frequency (RF), mechanisms, software, and fluids systems
• Experience with electro-mechanical systems and embedded hardware product development
• Experience with DAQs, PLCs, and control feedback loop design and implementation
• Experience with numerical analysis techniques and signal processing in multiple domains
• Experience with DO-160 airborne equipment test campaigns or similar aviation standards
• Ability to learn and work in a fast-paced, autonomously-driven, and demanding atmosphere
• Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Willing to travel up to 15% time to aviation integration sites and other SpaceX sites

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:

Software Test Engineer/Level I: $122,500.00 - $145,000.00/per year

Software Test Engineer/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 the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

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