Principal Software Engineer; Starlink Ground Network

Overview

Principal Software Engineer (Starlink Ground Network) — Redmond, WA

Space

X is building Starlink, the world’s largest satellite constellation and a global broadband internet system. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system — satellites, ground infrastructure, user hardware, and the software that ties it together. We seek best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s potential for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Principal Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will tackle challenges underpinning the program’s growth in areas such as networking, deployment tooling, and measurement systems for our in-house network platform designs.

Responsibilities include contributing to architecture and product development across multiple sub-teams with specific focus areas.

• Develop highly reliable and available software for a low-latency, high-capacity satellite-based global software-defined network.
• Design and implement 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 key design concepts and quantify technical constraints.
• Collaborate with other engineers to plan and organize the development of products.

Some sub-teams within Starlink software focus on specific areas. Responsibilities may include:

• Write high-quality Linux-based software for processors and microcontrollers (e.g., ARM, Power
  
  PC, x86).
• Invent tools to enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of CI/CD.
• Develop tools for test execution across virtualized hardware, hardware-in-the-loop simulations, and on-orbit testing.

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

• Experience developing, debugging, and deploying software used in real-world applications/projects.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical abilities, and engineering fundamentals.
• Solid knowledge of networks, electronics, math, and physics.
• Strong debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs.

Some roles may require additional team-specific experience, including:

• Networking protocols (UDP, TCP/IP) experience.
• High-performance C++ development.
• Security considerations for distributed systems and internet services.
• Understanding of testing, CI, build, deployment, and continuous monitoring.

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

Pay Range:
Software Engineer/Principal: $ - $ per year.

Your base salary is determined case-by-case and may vary based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience. Total rewards may include stock, bonuses, and other incentives, plus comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, vacation, holidays, and shuttle services where available.

Note:

Space

X is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application/interview process should contact

EEO information and ITAR compliance statements or related forms have been omitted here to focus on the job description content.