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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Software Engineer (Starshield) - Top Secret Clearance - **Company:** Space Exploration Technologies Corp. - **Location:** Hawthorne, CA, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Salary:** $125,000.0 - $175,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Testing (Software), C++ (Programming Language), Cloud Computing, Relational Databases, Software Debugging, Linux, PostgreSQL, Powerpc, Software Engineering, Software Systems, Test Execution Engine, Virtualization Technology, PIC Microcontroller, Containerization, Kubernetes, Information Technology, Docker, Network Optimization - **Published:** June 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=3dd5cc4f0e45217e ## About the Role Do you have experience in Virtualization?, Software engineers are engaged in every step of the design process for new technologies. We directly maintain our software systems in production whether as part of our distributed ground network or the software flying aboard our satellites. We are looking for engineers who want to write their own code, test their own systems, and have extreme influence over the end outcomes. Aerospace or satellite experience is not required to be successful here - we want engineers to bring fresh ideas from all areas in software. We look for engineers who love solving problems and seek to make an impact on an inspiring mission helping our national security. We are looking for versatile, motivated and collaborative engineers., * Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree * Development experience in C, C++, or Rust * Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Solid fundamental knowledge of computer architecture, networks, debugging, and software testing * Ability to work effectively and creatively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements * Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively * Production experience with containerization technologies (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes) * Experience with relational databases (PostgreSQL, CockroachDB, or similar) ## Description * Create highly reliable software systems that control thousands of satellites in low earth orbit * See your software through from start to finish: from figuring out the core needs to prototyping, developing, and testing; to on-orbit rollout and beyond * Work with interdisciplinary teams to brainstorm, design, and build the next generation of satellite capabilities, from cutting-edge sensors and inter-satellite lasers to space-based cloud compute * Work directly with end customers to deliver quality products and data to meet their needs There are several roles within the Starshield software team with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific focus areas based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific role responsibilities may include: * Write high quality Linux-based C++ software for common processors and micro controllers (e.g. ARM, PowerPC, x86, etc.) * Develop novel embedded cryptography applications for satellites and ground equipment * Develop highly performant networks to connect sensor data to end users * Build automated ground-based software systems that integrate smart data processing with command and control of the satellites * Develop models and simulations for flight-like vehicle software testing, network performance analysis, or research & development projects * Develop tools that allow for test execution across multiple environments: virtualized hardware, real hardware-in-the-loop, and even vehicle-in-the-loop testing ## Related Videos - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [How building an industry DBMS differs from building a research one](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/768-how-building-an-industry-dbms-differs-from-building-a-research-one) - [Docker Compose: Rediscovered](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1978-docker-compose-rediscovered) - [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker) - [Docker build without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100114-docker-build-without-docker) - [Answering the Million Dollar Question: Why did I Break Production?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1171-answering-the-million-dollar-question-why-did-i-break-production) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Dev Digest 134 - Where pixels sing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/477-dev-digest-134-where-pixels-sing) - [Best Countries for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/267-best-countries-for-software-engineers) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Dev Digest 120 - Apple and peers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/455-dev-digest-120-apple-and-peers) - [The 8 Best Code Testing Tools](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/402-the-8-best-code-testing-tools)