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Spacex Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Software Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL) As a Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering organization, you ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL) As a Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering organization, you ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Backend (C/C++)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER, BACKEND (C/C++) As a Software Engineer on the test infrastructure team, you will ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Backend (C/C++)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments, and care about software best practices. Help us build world-class ...

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Spacex Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do spacex software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacex software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a SpaceX software engineer do?

A SpaceX Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems that are crucial for the company’s aerospace missions. Their work includes writing code for flight control, simulation, data analysis, and ground systems that support rocket launches and spacecraft operations. SpaceX Software Engineers collaborate with hardware teams, ensure the reliability and safety of mission-critical systems, and solve unique engineering challenges in the aerospace field. Their contributions are essential to the success of SpaceX’s ambitious goals, such as launching rockets, deploying satellites, and enabling crewed missions to space.

What types of projects and technologies do SpaceX software engineers typically work on, and how does this impact daily collaboration within the team?

SpaceX Software Engineers often work on a diverse range of projects, from developing flight software for rockets and spacecraft, to building infrastructure and mission control systems. This requires frequent collaboration with hardware engineers, mission operators, and other software teams to ensure seamless integration and real-time performance. Daily work can involve code reviews, problem solving, and participation in cross-functional meetings to address challenges unique to aerospace, such as real-time data processing and reliability. The fast-paced, mission-driven environment means software engineers play a crucial role in delivering innovative solutions that directly support SpaceX’s launch and mission objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SpaceX software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SpaceX Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (in languages like C++, Python, or Java), a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems, embedded systems, version control (e.g., Git), and experience with aerospace or robotics software frameworks are commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this high-stakes, fast-paced environment. These technical and soft skills are crucial for developing reliable code that powers complex space systems and for collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to achieve ambitious mission goals.

Does SpaceX have software engineers?

Yes, SpaceX employs software engineers who develop and maintain software systems for rocket control, spacecraft operations, and ground support. These engineers typically work with programming languages like C++, Python, and MATLAB and may require knowledge of aerospace systems and software development processes.

How do I get into SpaceX as a software engineer?

To become a SpaceX software engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field, along with strong programming skills in languages like C++, Python, or Java. Relevant experience in aerospace, robotics, or embedded systems, as well as familiarity with real-time operating systems and software development tools, is also important. Applying through the company's careers portal and demonstrating a strong technical background are key steps in the hiring process.

What are popular job titles related to Spacex Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Spacex Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Spacex Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Spacex Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Spacex Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Spacex Software Engineer job openings:

Spacex Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacex Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Software Engineer, Flight Software (Starship)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, FLIGHT SOFTWARE (STARSHIP)

SpaceX's Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket (collectively referred to as Starship) represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. Starship will be the world's most powerful launch vehicle ever developed, with the ability to carry in excess of 100 metric tons to Earth orbit.

As a Software Engineer on the Starship Software team, you will design, develop, and test software that is used to both control and simulate SpaceX flight systems. You will engage with other SpaceX software and hardware engineers to implement and debug software at all layers of our stack - application, operating system, networking, firmware, simulation - to achieve the mission.

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:

  • Develop highly reliable autonomous software systems and the simulations required to validate them
  • Own all aspects of software development, including design, testing, and integration to the mission
  • Work with counterpart engineering teams to develop and maintain launch and vehicle software, crossing all required software domains necessary to implement and verify control of the pad, ship, and booster to meet mission objectives
  • Follow and maintain high software standards and software engineering best practices within Starship Software

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering discipline; OR 2+ years of professional software development experience in lieu of a degree

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Proven skills and knowledge of C++, Rust, or other systems programming language
  • Experience building or working with real-time embedded systems or distributed computing systems
  • Strong focus and interest in designing, architecting, and implementing excellent, bug-free software
  • Basic knowledge of electronics, controls, fluid systems, motor design, or physical mechanics
  • Strong critical thinking and first-principles problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Able to work effectively in a dynamic environment while assuming high levels of responsibility and demonstrating accountability for software outcomes

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work long hours and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    
Software Engineering/Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year    
Software Engineering/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year

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 accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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