Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship)

spacex· Starship Software Engineering
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📍 Starbase, TX

About this role

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) position at spacex?
The salary for this Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) role at spacex is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) position at spacex located?
This Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) role at spacex is based in Starbase, TX. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Which team or department does the Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) at spacex belong to?
This Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) position is part of the Starship Software Engineering department at spacex. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) position at spacex?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to spacex's official application portal hosted on greenhouse where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) job at spacex posted?
This Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship) position at spacex was posted on May 22, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Sr. Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship)
spacex
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