Embedded Software Engineer, OS/Platform (Starlink)
Embedded OS/platform software engineer on SpaceX's Starlink program in Redmond, WA, maintaining in-house branches of Linux, Buildroot, and U-Boot, supporting secure boot, spacecraft Ethernet networking, software updates, and device drivers for in-house silicon across satellite and ground Linux systems. Core languages are C, C++, Python, and Rust.
- Compensation
- $125K–$200K / yr
- Location
- Redmond, WA
- Work setup
- Not specified
- Seniority
- Intern
- Employment
- Internship
- Experience
- 2+ years
- Category
- Embedded
- Posted
Skills
Must have
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline; OR 2+ years of professional software development experience in lieu of a degree (internship experience applicable)
- Development experience in C, C++, Python and/or Rust
- Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
- Must meet ITAR requirements: U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee (or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State)
Nice to have
- Linux kernel upstreamed patches
- Knowledge of networking and the Linux networking stack
- Good knowledge of computer architecture and modern secure boot flows
- Experience with ARM embedded systems
- Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring
- Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
- Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
Full description
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, OS/PLATFORM (STARLINK)
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 9M+ 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 an OS/Platform Software Engineer on the Starlink program, you will be solving challenges underpinning every aspect of the program’s growth. The areas you could have an impact on could include, but are not limited to:
- Bringing up next generation space grade silicon, including in house designed system on chip and peripherals.
- Develop software from the early stage boot loaders to business logic with an emphasis on deterministic, secure, and performant platform for all of SpaceX Linux based spacecraft and grounds-based components.
- Infrastructure and tools to enable rapid development and testing of new features for all OS/platform features.
Our software engineers are responsible for the complete lifecycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and support.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Maintain and update in house branches of OSS software such as Linux, Buildroot, and u-boot.
- Support secureboot and runtime security of all Linux based satellite components.
- Maintain the spacecraft Ethernet network and connectivity.
- Develop, deploy and test spacecraft software update process.
- Support in-house System on Chip and peripheral through the life-cycle of the part.
- Support OS/Platform specific test infrastructure.
- Development and support device drivers for third party and in-house components.
- Be the first software team to receive new satellite components.
- Interface with Silicon, Electrical, and Application Software Engineers to bring hardware from prototype stage to on on-orbit operations.