This role pays less than
81%
of similar roles. Most pay
$147,283–$209,425
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$138k
versus about
$178k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 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
680 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$130,000–$165,000
across 442 roles with salary data.
Software Engineer, Hardware Test & Automation (Starshield) joins the Integration & Test team to develop integrated operations and automation infrastructure for Hardware In The Loop testbeds and production floors. This role focuses on building tools that enable rapid development and accurate testing of Starshield hardware systems, including flight control devices like inertial control units and space lasers. You will develop modular, reusable test software in Python, C, and C++ to interact with flight hardware, instrumentation, and production documentation. Key responsibilities include creating algorithms for complex data analysis, managing continuous integration pipelines, and troubleshooting automation infrastructure. The role requires proficiency in Linux, Windows, and various interfaces like GPIB, USB, TCP/IP, and CAN bus. You will solve technical challenges related to manufacturing yields and design verification within the specialized domain of government-focused satellite communications and earth observation systems.
What does a Software Engineer earn in California?
Median $214000 from 775 postings across 63 companies.
Develop modular, reusable test and automation software in Python for manufacturing and engineering design verification.
Write automation software to interact with flight hardware, test equipment, instrumentation, and production documentation systems.
Create software that enables test execution across multiple environments including Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) and virtualized simulations.
Develop custom automation solutions using a combination of embedded electronics and innovative hardware to solve engineering challenges.
Create algorithms to analyze complex test data to determine if components meet specific acceptance criteria.
Maintain, troubleshoot, and resolve root causes for existing automation infrastructure in collaboration with partner teams.
Build tools to enable frequent and reliable software deployment, testing, and data analysis within a continuous integration system.
What we're looking for
Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or a STEM discipline is required, or 2+ years of professional software development experience.
At least 1 year of software development experience in C, C++, or Python is required.
Ability and willingness to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible for export control authorizations.
Experience with Linux and Windows operating systems, configuration management, and version control software.
Knowledge of continuous integration, agile development, and containerization technologies like Docker or Kubernetes.
Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware/software interactions, network devices, and lab instrumentation.
Familiarity with digital and analog interfaces including GPIB, USB, VISA, TCP/IP, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, and Modbus.
C++
Python
C
Linux
TCP
UDP
ARM
PowerPC
x86
Machine Learning
Unit Testing
Computer Architecture
Networking Protocols
Hardware-in-the-loop
Data Processing