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.

FULL STACK SOFTWARE ENGINEER (TOP SECRET CLEARANCE)

As a Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and test key aspects of an in-house solution for analysis, simulation, and prototyping of software in support of all SpaceX flight systems. You will have full ownership of new features in a scalable high-performance web application in addition to contributing to the core simulation and emulation infrastructure and collaborating on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high-impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build a high-throughput distributed system to develop and demonstrate cutting-edge software and hardware. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments, and care about software best practices. 

Our simulation software is critical to future mission success and we have no shortage of interesting challenges that require innovative, cutting-edge solutions. 

 RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Develop full-stack solutions to manage analysis, prototypes, and vehicles leveraging simulation software, emulators, and flight software 
  • Develop prototypes to prove key design concepts and quantify technical constraints 
  • Develop high-fidelity simulation and emulation software for all vehicles while maintaining the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo 
  • Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
  • Work with users to develop new features and improve user experience 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline and 1+ years of experience in software development; OR 3+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree
  • 1+ years of professional experience in full-stack development of production web applications 
  • Experience with JavaScript libraries such as React and Redux 
  • Professional experience developing Python applications 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance OR ability and willingness to obtain a Top Secret clearance
  • Professional programming experience in modern C++ (C++14 and above) 
  • Profession programming experience with object-oriented languages such as Java, Python, C#
  • Strong software design and development skills 
  • Experience with highly available concurrent systems
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance 
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements 
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively 
  • Experience with containerized solutions such as Docker and Kubernetes 
  • Professional experience with Linux or Unix systems and tools 
  • Experience with high-performance computing systems 
  • Experience with database systems such as Postgres, MySql or Oracle. 
  • Experience working with a team on at least one large (>100,000 lines) software project 
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and test automation

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing 
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when 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:

  • 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.

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