Software Development Test Engineer (Starlink)

As a Software Development Test Engineer for Starlink, you will be responsible for designing and building “hardware-in-the-loop” (HIL/HITL) test systems. These systems allow for Starlink software engineers to build technologies such as space laser mesh networks, next-generation phased array antennas, advanced collision avoidance algorithms, and much more. You will be working with a multidisciplinary   team on efforts such as constructing a platform to test industrial ground antennas, high-power amplifiers, ground-to-space lasers, and more. You will also be collaborating closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that we provide a highly effective, user-friendly integrated test platform.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain highly reliable hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) testbeds—including surrounding infrastructure, tooling, and support equipment—for the Starlink software continuous integration system
• Develop test cases and create simulation environments that replicate on-orbit scenarios to deliver flight-like testing capabilities
• Ensure all software has an appropriate level of test coverage, balancing reliability, velocity and safety
• Pioneer innovative strategies to scale the HITL fleet in accordance with the Starlink software organization’s growing test demands
• Analyze and troubleshoot HITL test results to identify testbed issues and prevent software bugs from reaching production

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in software, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, or a related engineering discipline
• 1+ years of professional test experience within electrical, mechanical, and/or aerospace engineering
• Development experience in Python
• Experience in CI/CD pipeline development

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Experience with integration and testing of electrical, electromechanical, RF, and/or high voltage systems
• Experience with electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, DAQs, electronic loads, and spectrum analyzers
• Experience with 3D CAD software for design, modeling, and manufacturing applications
• Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
• Experience with communication protocols including USB, VISA, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, and Modbus
• Experience working with networking hardware and troubleshooting layers 2-4 of the OSI-model
• Strong skills in troubleshooting, debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing
• Solid fundamental knowledge of networks, electronics, RF communications, math, and physics
• Experience with simulation software and data analysis
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to learn quickly and work effectively in a dynamic environment

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed

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 .