Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship)

SpaceX

Starbase, Tx
Onsite
Posted 2026-05-22

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Skills named in this job

Rust
C++
Python

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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.

SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, FLIGHT SOFTWARE (STARSHIP)

As an engineer on the Starship software team, you will design, develop and test software that is used to control SpaceX flight systems for the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles. You will engage with other SpaceX software and hardware engineers to code highly reliable software that allows Starship to become an orbital vehicle. You will be responsible for the complete life cycle of the software you create, from development to testing to operation during a mission.

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving problems and want to make an impact on a super inspiring mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Develop highly reliable autonomous software systems and simulations to validate them
Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
Own all aspects of software development, including design, testing, and mission integration
Provide strong technical leadership, focus on continuous improvement

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline and 4+ years of professional experience in software development; OR 6+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
4+ years of professional experience C++, Python, or Rust

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Strong software design and development skills
Experience with Rust
Working knowledge of control theory
Experience designing fault tolerant software
Thorough knowledge of computer architecture and networks
Knowledge of physics, math, and electronics
Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
Creative approach to problem solving
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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Willing to work extended hours and weekends if needed to meet critical deadlines

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 reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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Listed on greenhouse · posted 2026-05-22. ApplySarthi collects openings and links to application pages; the role is advertised by SpaceX, not by us.