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, SIMULATION SOFTWARE (STARSHIP) SpaceX's Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket (collectively referred to as Starship) represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. Starship will be the world's most powerful launch vehicle ever developed, with the ability to carry in excess of 100 metric tons to Earth orbit.
As a Software Engineer on the Starship Simulation Software team, you will design and develop high performance simulation models of vehicle and ground systems, support development and validation of Hardware-in-the-Loop testbeds (HITL) and build scalable test execution infrastructure. You will engage with other engineering teams to build simulation capabilities that enable the organization to accelerate the development and deployment of safe, reliable and efficient software for Starship.
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: - Collaborate with the Avionics team to develop and validate Hardware-in-the-Loop testbeds
- Collaborate closely with hardware and analysis teams to develop high-fidelity and performant simulation models for vehicle subsystems
- Develop and maintain the infrastructure used to execute simulations
- Follow and maintain high software standards and software engineering best practices within Starship Software
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: - Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering discipline; OR 2+ years of professional software development experience in lieu of a degree
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: - Proven skills and knowledge of C++, Python, Rust, or other systems programming language
- Experience with building simulation models, CI systems and debugging tools
- Strong focus and interest in designing, architecting, and implementing excellent, bug-free software
- Basic knowledge of electronics, controls, fluid systems, motor design, or physical mechanics
- Strong critical thinking and first-principles problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Able to work effectively in a dynamic environment while assuming high levels of responsibility and demonstrating accountability for software outcomes
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: - Willing to work long hours and weekends as needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
Software 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. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $15,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.
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
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