Embedded Software Engineer, Platform (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.

• →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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com.