> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3668056-ai-security-software-engineer-starshield](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3668056-ai-security-software-engineer-starshield). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # AI Security Software Engineer (Starshield) - **Company:** Space Exploration Technologies Corp. - **Location:** Hawthorne, CA, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Salary:** $130,000.0 - $160,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, C++ (Programming Language), Continuous Integration, Python (Programming Language), Network Security, Machine Learning, Security Software, Software Engineering, Backend, Build Management, Kubernetes, Information Technology, Operating System Security, Golang - **Published:** October 10, 2026 - **Apply:** https://jobs.localjobnetwork.com/apply/add/88577625/1 ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree * Experience with one or more software development languages (i.e. Python, C++, Golang) PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Experience designing and building production software across the stack, including backend services, data models and migrations, and modern web frontends * Experience taking software from prototype to production: containerized deployment on Kubernetes, CI pipelines, monitoring, and secure connections between services * Experience designing, prompting, and securing agents that can perform long-running autonomous tasks * Experience applying AI or machine learning approaches to classification and decision problems such as identifying malicious activity or malicious inputs to an agent * Experience designing AI systems that learn and improve over time * Experience in fundamental security engineering areas: identity, cryptography, network security, operating system security, detection and monitoring * Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams * Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal * Ability to work both independently and in a team * Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance ## Description 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 ofenabling human life on Mars. AI SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) AI is rapidly transforming the national security landscape. SpaceX needs to lead the way by developing AI solutions to solve the most pressing security problems. We can no longer respond at human speed in order to counter threats from adversaries - it is critical that we develop solutions to deal with this problem now. As an engineer on the newly formed AI security team, you will develop AI-powered automation and platforms to identify and fix vulnerabilities, perform real-time detections/investigations/network defense, and more. This team heavily leverages AI for fast-paced development and rollout, while also ensuring that these AI security tools can be highly trusted and secure themselves. If you are passionate about AI, software, and security this role is for you. Prior security engineering experience is preferred but not required. A great candidate has experience and/or deep enthusiasm for AI, agent engineering, robust software system design, and network and systems security. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Design and build security-critical agents for Starshield that automate network and systems defense * Leverage AI to discover and fix security issues in Starshield infrastructure and systems * Provide guidance and perform testing of AI integrations into new and existing Starshield systems * Identify new areas of the program where meaningful security improvements can be gained via automation and AI * Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams, * Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed * This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.