Software Engineer (Controls Software)
- Location
- Starbase, TX
- Work mode
- On-site
- Employment type
- Full-time
About the job
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.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER (CONTROLS SOFTWARE)
We are looking for a software engineer to join our Controls Software team at Starbase. This team designs, develops, tests, and maintains software used for test stand/launch infrastructure data acquisition and control, data post-processing, and other engineering software needs. The team works closely with test engineers, electrical engineers, other flight and ground software teams, and information technology to rapidly deploy high-performance software catering to unique test engineering requirements. This role is highly multi-disciplinary, will work in a variety of software languages, and will work closely with hardware. Your software will control rocket tests every day. Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather, we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving problems and want to make an impact on a super-inspiring mission.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Architect and develop software and systems for
- Data acquisition and control for test stands
- Data storage and analysis
- Automation of engineering and business functions
- Collaborate with electrical engineers, test engineers, and IT to develop computing and network solutions for test stand data and control needs
- Support active operations when software issues are encountered
- Own all aspects of software development, including design, testing, and test stand integration
- Provide strong technical leadership, focus on continuous improvement, and training
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or other science discipline
- 1+ years of experience in software development (internship experience qualifies)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience with National Instruments hardware (cDAQ, cRIO, PXI) and software (LabVIEW)
- Proven skills and knowledge with C++, Python, or other text-based programming languages
- Proven experience in architecting, managing, and integrating large distributed systems
- Strong communication/mentorship skills and experience in technical leadership
- Examples of working directly with customers to gather requirements
- Experience with network communication
- Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing
- Creative approach to problem solving
- Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
- Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- This is not a remote or hybrid position and will require all work to be completed in the office
- Must be available to work extended hours, weekends, and shifts, which vary depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
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 .
From SpaceX's careers page (Greenhouse), checked 31 Oct 2026.
How to apply
- Select Apply on spacex.com. It opens SpaceX's own application form in a new tab, run on Greenhouse.
- Fill in the form and upload your résumé there. Jobiwork never sees your application.
- SpaceX will reply to you directly. No real employer asks you for money to apply.
Posted 18 Sept 2026 · checked 31 Oct 2026 · Report this job