Software Automation And Test Engineer (Starlink Production)

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 AUTOMATION AND TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK PRODUCTION)

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 1M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

As a Software Engineer in the Starlink Production organization, your focus will be on developing integrated operations and automation for the Starlink Satellite Production line and automated test equipment. You will be responsible for systems that enable rapid development and accurate testing of Starlink software and hardware, with a continual focus on design, development, and building innovative test systems, from hardware designs to software infrastructure. Our engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the products they create, including development, testing, and operational support giving you a chance to have critical ownership of the projects you're working on. Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here – engineers on this team are curious, and collaborative, love to learn new things, and work effectively in a dynamic environment to deliver high-impact technology on a massive scale.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop software that allows for test execution across multiple environments: hardware-in-the-loop (HITL, HIL) and virtualized hardware simulations.
• Own the overall health and success of testing infrastructure; design data analysis tools, dashboards, and reports to track key metrics and test system stability.
• Analyze test results and identify bugs that require in-depth investigations with engineers across the organization.
• Hands-on integration and troubleshooting of Starlink hardware/software.
• Design and develop test system architecture and methodology for Starlink build verification.
• Work closely with developers to provide a reliable, fast, accurate, and easy-to-use integrated test platform.
• Develop software and guide hardware selection to facilitate the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices with production test systems to enable a smart factory
• Invent tools that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Development experience in C, C++, or python.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; or 2+ years of professional experience in test systems, software, or hardware development in lieu of a degree.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Creative approach to problem-solving, exceptional analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Data analysis skill set and experience with simulation software.
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, RF communications, optics, math, and physics.
• Experience with containerization technologies (i.e. Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with continuous integration and monitoring.
• Hands-on experience building, testing, or working with hardware test setups.
• Strong skills in troubleshooting, debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
• Radio frequency (RF) system-level design, modems, and diagnostic test equipment experience.
• Developed and deployed software that has been used in real-world applications/projects.
• Linux and Bash proficiency and experience with networking protocols.
• Ability to learn quickly and work effectively in a dynamic environment.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

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

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Software Test Engineer/Level I: $120,000.00 - $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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & 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:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.