Sr. Software Engineer (Ground Segment)

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.SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER GROUND SEGMENT The SpaceX Ground Segment team is responsible for mission-critical space-to-ground communications and tracking of our Falcon and Dragon vehicles. We design, build, and operate an Earth ground station network, including launch site and recovery RF communications and optical tracking. For NASA missions, the team is responsible for NASA mission control interfaces, including command, telemetry, voice, and video.As a software engineer on the Ground Segment team, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing the software that is used to control SpaceX communications and tracking assets for Falcon and Dragon. You will develop projects through their full product life cycle. You will have the opportunity to work alongside operators in Mission Control. You will demonstrate extreme ownership of this software through a deep understanding of system requirements and interfaces while pushing to meet aggressive timelines. You will also closely collaborate with other disciplines and think at a system level to ensure a high level of reliability for mission-critical tracking and data on systems that include ones used in support of human spaceflight.RESPONSIBILITIESDesign, test, and integrate highly reliable software systems that run on both commercial and SpaceX-developed hardwareDevelop continuous integration and testing systems in order to confidently deploy new software to a production environmentDevelop prototypes to evaluate new designs and hardware and provide quantitative analysis for decision-makingPartner with avionics, flight operators, GNC, and other stakeholders to identify and execute software solutionsPerform post-operation data analysis to evaluate system performance and inform continuous improvementBASIC QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline and 5+ years of experience in software development; OR 10+ years of experience in software development5+ years of experience in Python or C++5+ years of experience working in a Linux environmentPREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE5+ years of experience with spacecraft, ground station, or other communication system operations5+ years of project or industry experience with RF, controls, spacecraft, and/or communications systemsExperience developing, debugging, and deploying software that has been used in real-world applications/projectsExperience working on technical teams in a rapidly changing, highly demanding environmentExperience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP, etc)Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, math, engineering, and physicsStrong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testingCreative approach to problem-solving, engineering, and design with exceptional analytical skillsExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalExperience with web technologies and user interface designElectromechanical/mechatronics software system design and developmentWorking knowledge of control theoryExperience designing fault-tolerant softwareThorough knowledge of computer architecture and networksAbility to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectivelyADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Extended hours and weekend work may be required to support critical project and mission milestonesCOMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:Pay Range:Software Engineer/Senior: $160,000.00 - $220,000.00/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.