Principal Optical Network Engineer (Starlink Ground Network)

SpaceX

Quick summary

Work type: On-site
Location: Redmond, WA
Salary: $180,000–$260,000 / yr
Posted: today

Market check

Salary context

Above market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $152k

This role $220k

$109k most similar roles pay here $276k

This role pays more than 94% of similar roles. Most pay $131,000–$174,000 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $220k versus about $152k for comparable roles.

Based on 237 similar postings.

Employer

About SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft with the mission of enabling humans to become a multi-planetary species. It operates the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, as well as the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

SpaceX currently has 604 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $130,000–$155,000 across 440 roles with salary data.

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View all roles at SpaceX

At a glance

TL;DR · Principal Optical Network Engineer (Starlink Ground Network)

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The Principal Optical Network Engineer role at Starlink Ground Network in Redmond, WA is a senior-level position within the team responsible for designing and deploying ground infrastructure to support the global satellite network. This engineer will lead the development of optical connectivity solutions, create test stations for new product qualification, and develop modular software tools using Python to automate testing processes. They will collaborate closely with space network teams to optimize traffic flow and enhance reliability across the extensive Starlink network. Ideal candidates possess a strong background in electrical engineering or related fields, hands-on experience with DWDM systems, optical device testing, and scripting languages like Python. The role demands expertise in IP networking fundamentals and data analysis skills to ensure continuous improvement of the optical infrastructure on a large scale.

Skills

Python DWDM IP Networking MATLAB SQL Optical Network Design Test Automation Data Visualization Communications Theory Integrated Photonics

What you'll do

Design and develop optical connectivity solutions for the Starlink ground network infrastructure.
Develop and maintain lab and production test stations for new product qualification and troubleshooting.
Create modular, reusable test and automation software in Python for engineering design verification.
Work with cross-functional teams to scale the Starlink network physical layer and optimize traffic flow.
Lead continuous reliability improvement initiatives by developing proactive monitoring tools.

What we're looking for

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, applied physics, or related field
7+ years of experience in optical experiments and test automation
Fundamental understanding of DWDM transmission systems and communications theory
Hands-on experience with optical device testing and system characterization
Experience designing and creating test software infrastructure using Python or similar languages
Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a dynamic team environment

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