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.
PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE ENGINEER (DIRECT TO CELL)
SpaceX is developing a breakthrough new direct to cell satellite network to bring ubiquitous cellular connectivity worldwide via the Starlink constellation. We are partnering with telecommunication companies around the world to bring this service directly from satellites to existing cell phones, with the goal of providing coverage anywhere a phone can see the sky.
More than 20% of the United States and 90% of the Earth remain uncovered by existing wireless networks, negatively impacting communities around the world. Starlink was designed to connect the disconnected and this new product will greatly expand that mission, extending Starlink€™s potential reach to billions of existing cellular devices. The applications range from connecting hikers in national parks, emergency workers such as firefighters, rural communities, remote sensors and devices, and people and devices in emergency situations. You can learn more about this recently announced effort here.
We are seeking talented software engineers to join us in making this vision a reality and solving a wide range of novel engineering challenges:
Cutting-edge networking algorithms capable of connecting thousands of satellites to millions of users in real time.
Custom 4G LTE and 5G network software supporting all layers of the protocol stack (L1/L2/L3), running for the first time on hardware in space.
Firmware and control software for one of the most complex communication payloads ever built, running on custom-built silicon chips.
Infrastructure and tools enabling a highly reliable, software-defined global network.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Develop highly reliable and available software systems to create a global software-defined cellular network from space.
Develop algorithms for efficient operation of the network including capacity planning, throughput allocation, fault-recovery, and network routing.
Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews.
Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints.
Collaborate with other engineers to plan and organize the development of our products.
Partner with the broader engineering team to design the satellite hardware.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
8+ years of experience in software development with a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 10+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree.
6+ years development experience in Python, Java, C or C++.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Developed, debugged and deployed software that has been used in real world applications/projects.
Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals.
Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, math, and physics.
Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing.
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements.
Experience developing software for LTE or 5G networks.
Experience with networking protocols (UDP, TCP, etc).
Experience with RF system development and operation.
Experience in C++ for high performance systems.
Experience with security issues associated with distributed systems and internet services.
Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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.
