Automation and Test Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

About the role

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 millions of 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.

The Starlink engineering teams are building highly reliable in-space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next-gen communication and sensing software, and more.

You will be responsible for systems that enable rapid development and accurate testing of Starlink software and hardware, with continual focus on design, development and building innovative test systems, from hardware designs to software infrastructure.

Our engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the products they create, including development, testing, and operational support giving you a chance to have critical ownership of the projects you're working.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and build test platforms to best validate Starlink software.
• Develop software that allow for test execution across multiple environments: hardware-in-the-loop (HITL, HIL) and virtualized hardware simulations.
• Invent tools that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, test execution, and data analysis as part of a continuous integration and release system.
• Analyze test results and identify bugs that require in-depth investigations with engineers across the organization.
• Work closely with developers to provide a reliable, fast, accurate and easy-to-use integrated test platform.
• Hands-on integration and troubleshooting of Starlink hardware/software.
• Identify areas for improvement in the test systems and create innovative solutions.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 1+ years of professional experience in test systems, software or hardware development; OR 3+ years of professional experience in test systems, software or hardware development in lieu of a degree (internship experience is applicable).
• Development experience in C, C++, or python.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience building, testing, or working with hardware test setups.
• Linux and Bash proficiency and experience with networking protocols.
• Developed and deployed software that has been used in real world applications/projects.
• Data analysis skillset and experience with simulation software.
• Experience with containerization technologies (i.e. Docker, Kubernetes).
• Radio frequency (RF) system-level design, modems and diagnostic test equipment experience.
• Strong skills in troubleshooting, debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
• Experience with continuous integration and monitoring.
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, RF communications, math, and physics.
• Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to learn quickly and work effectively in a dynamic environment.

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Pay Range

Level 1: $125,000.00 - $165,000.00

Level 2: $145,000.00 - $200,000.00

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 in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

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.