
Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink)
SpaceX · Redmond, WA
- On site
- Full-time
- $175,000 / year
- Redmond, WA
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Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink)
SpaceX · Redmond, WA
Alex Rivera
Hiring Manager · h•••••@boards.greenhouse.io
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Subject: Interested in the Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink) role at SpaceX
Hi Alex — I came across the Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink) opening and wanted to reach out directly. I've spent the last few years doing exactly this kind of work, and SpaceX stood out because…
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Not recommended alone — most applicants never hear back.
Job highlights
- Design, operate, and scale Starlink's infrastructure.
- Develop automation for compute resources and deployment.
- Manage databases, monitoring, and distributed storage.
- Collaborate to build scalable software products.
- Improve service lifecycle and developer velocity.
About the role
Software Infrastructure Engineer Starlink
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 of enabling human life on Mars.At SpaceX we’re leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 9M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink’s utility for communities and businesses around the globe.
As an engineer focused on Starlink’s software and network infrastructure, you will design, operate and scale the infrastructure we use to run the world’s largest satellite constellation and manage a network that handles millions of daily users worldwide. These positions cover a variety of areas ranging from Developer Operations, to Site Reliability and managing our Kubernetes environment. You will develop automation to deploy and manage on-premise compute resources, create highly scalable and maintainable software products, and directly collaborate with engineering across the board.
Responsibilities
- Develop automation to deploy and manage on-premise compute resources
- Deploy and manage core infrastructure such as databases, monitoring and distributed storage
- Closely collaborate with software engineers to create highly scalable, operable and maintainable products
- Engage in and improve the whole lifecycle of services -- from inception and design, through deployment, operation and refinement
- Invent tools and processes that enable fast, accurate, and easy-to-use development and deployment systems
- Provide fast and comprehensive software validation, including virtualized, hardware-in-the-loop, and on-orbit test platforms
- Monitoring and data analysis in support of a continuous integration and release system
- Hands-on integration and troubleshooting across the entire Starlink stack
- Create and manage core infrastructure such as databases and software libraries
- Identify areas for improvement and create innovative solutions that enable high developer velocity
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems/IT, or an engineering discipline and 1+ years of professional experience in systems administration, site reliability engineering, or DevOps; OR 3+ years of professional experience in systems administration, site reliability engineering, or DevOps in lieu of a degree
- 1+ years of professional experience with Linux operating systems
- Experience with Terraform, Ansible, or other infrastructure tools
- Experience with containerization technologies (i.e. Docker, Kubernetes)
- Experience in Bash, Python, and/or other scripting languages
- Development experience in Python, C++ or C
Preferred Skills And Experience
- 1+ years of experience with Python and Python-based development frameworks
- Strong understanding of virtualization and hypervisor technologies
- Knowledge of Linux boot process and systems configuration
- Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring
- Strong understanding of relevant technologies, such as: Bazel or other build systems, Linux, Docker, Kubernetes, or similar technologies
- Focus on performance bottlenecks and performance improvement techniques
- Understanding of databases and data modeling
- Experience with automatically managing dozens, hundreds, or thousands of servers (eg: Terraform or Ansible)
- Strong networking knowledge of TCP/IP
- Excellent communications skills with the ability to communicate with customers, peers, management etc. in both formal and informal situations
Additional Requirements
- Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
Compensation and Benefits
- Pay Range: Level 1: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00, Level 2: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00
- Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
- Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
- You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks.
- You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law.
- Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
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.
Key skills/competency: Software Infrastructure Engineer, Starlink, SpaceX, DevOps, Site Reliability Engineering, Kubernetes, Terraform, Ansible, Python, Linux.
Skills & topics
- Software Infrastructure Engineer
- Starlink
- SpaceX
- DevOps
- Site Reliability Engineering
- Kubernetes
- Terraform
- Ansible
- Python
- Linux
- Systems Administration
- Cloud Infrastructure
- Automation
- CI/CD
- Satellite Constellation
- Network Engineering
- Computer Science
- IT
- Engineering
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight systems administration, SRE, or DevOps experience. Emphasize Linux, scripting (Bash, Python), and infrastructure tools like Terraform or Ansible.
- Showcase technical skills: Detail experience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) and programming languages (Python, C++, C). Mention virtualization and networking knowledge.
- Demonstrate problem-solving: Provide examples of automating deployments, managing large server fleets, and improving system performance.
- Prepare for technical interviews: Be ready to discuss Linux internals, build systems (Bazel), CI/CD pipelines, and database concepts.
- Understand SpaceX culture: Research their mission of enabling human life on Mars and their fast-paced, innovative environment.
Technical preparation
Master Linux system administration and shell scripting.,Practice infrastructure as code with Terraform/Ansible.,Build and deploy applications using Docker/Kubernetes.,Develop automation scripts in Python or Bash.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex infrastructure problem you solved.,How do you handle on-call incidents and emergencies?,Give an example of improving system performance.,How do you collaborate with software development teams?
Prefer to apply the usual way?
Not recommended alone — most applicants never hear back. Email the hiring manager first.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the core responsibilities of a Software Infrastructure Engineer at SpaceX Starlink?
- As a Software Infrastructure Engineer for Starlink at SpaceX, you will be responsible for designing, operating, and scaling the infrastructure that runs the world's largest satellite constellation. This includes developing automation for on-premise compute resources, managing core infrastructure like databases and distributed storage, collaborating with software engineers to build scalable products, and improving the entire service lifecycle from design to deployment and refinement.
- What technical skills are essential for the Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink) role at SpaceX?
- Essential technical skills include a strong foundation in Linux operating systems, experience with infrastructure as code tools like Terraform or Ansible, and proficiency with containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. Proficiency in scripting languages like Bash and Python, along with development experience in Python, C++, or C, is also crucial. A solid understanding of networking (TCP/IP), virtualization, and CI/CD practices is highly preferred.
- Does SpaceX offer remote work options for the Software Infrastructure Engineer (Starlink) position?
- The job description mentions company shuttles to the SpaceX Redmond office, suggesting an on-site or hybrid work arrangement. While remote work policies can vary, the nature of infrastructure engineering for a large-scale system like Starlink often requires a significant on-site presence. Candidates should inquire about specific work arrangement details during the application process.
- What is the expected salary range for a Software Infrastructure Engineer at SpaceX Starlink?
- SpaceX offers competitive compensation for this role, with a pay range of $125,000 - $150,000 for Level 1 and $145,000 - $175,000 for Level 2. The final salary will be determined based on factors such as your specific experience, skills, and education. Additionally, SpaceX provides a comprehensive benefits package including stock options and other incentives.
- Are there specific degree requirements for the Software Infrastructure Engineer role at SpaceX?
- A Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems/IT, or an engineering discipline is preferred, along with at least 1 year of professional experience in systems administration, SRE, or DevOps. Alternatively, 3 or more years of relevant professional experience in these fields can substitute for a degree. The focus is on practical experience and skills.
- What is the career growth potential for a Software Infrastructure Engineer at SpaceX?
- SpaceX offers significant career growth potential, particularly within the Starlink program which is rapidly expanding. As you contribute to a critical and cutting-edge project, you'll gain experience in operating at an unprecedented scale, working with advanced technologies, and potentially moving into lead or architect roles within the infrastructure and SRE teams.
- What are the ITAR requirements for this Software Infrastructure Engineer position at SpaceX?
- To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants for this position must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. lawful permanent resident, a refugee, or an asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required U.S. Department of State authorizations. This is a standard requirement for many roles at SpaceX involving sensitive technologies.
