Embedded Software Engineer, Platform (Starshield)

SpaceX· Hawthorne, CA· Starshield Software Engineering

Posted 2026-10-30

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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.

EMBEDDED SOFTWARE ENGINEER, PLATFORM SOFTWARE (STARSHIELD)

National security customers cannot wait on slow programs or fragile software. Starshield’s job is timely, reliable information delivery for the intelligence community and defense services by building robust embedded systems, flying them quickly, and iterating.

The Starshield Software team builds the software that boots, runs, and secures spacecraft and ground systems. As an Embedded Software Engineer on Starshield Platform, you will contribute across the stack that userspace applications depend on: early-stage bootloaders, Linux kernel and drivers, and any other firmware needed to reliably control CPU and FPGA hardware on Starshield vehicle nodes.

You will own that software through its full lifecycle: development, test, and on-orbit support.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Maintain and update in-house branches of open-source software such as Linux, Buildroot, and U-Boot
Design and implement platform security: secure boot, runtime integrity, and the features that keep this layer trustworthy on orbit
Support Platform-specific test infrastructure
Own device drivers and board-level firmware for in-house and vendor components
Define and maintain interfaces between the platform layer and userspace / mission software
Work with Electrical, FPGA, and application software teams to take boards from prototype through on-orbit operations

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
System-level development experience in C, C++, or Rust

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience developing in the Linux kernel
Experience working with computer architecture and modern secure boot flows
Experience with ARM and/or FPGA SoC embedded systems
Experience with testing, continuous integration, build, deployment, and continuous monitoring
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs
Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Level 1: $125,000.00 - $160,000.00
Level 2: $145,000.00 - $195,000.00

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 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 accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.

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 reach out to [email protected].

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