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Spacex Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATION As a software engineer on the NDE ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER (PLATFORM TEAM) The Platform Team is responsible for building the foundational ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... Our software engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the software they create, including ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER, DATA (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... Our software engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the software they create, including ...

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATION As a software engineer on the NDE ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER, C++ (DRAGON) As a software engineer on the Dragon team, you will develop ...

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... SOFTWARE ENGINEER, C++ (DRAGON) As a software engineer on the Dragon team, you will develop ...

As a Software Engineer for SpaceX's AI platform, you will act as an entrepreneurial builder focused on the leanest and most effective applied use of AI at SpaceX. You will design platforms that ...

SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL) As a Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering organization, you ... You will have a direct impact on our ability to launch SpaceX systems frequently, safely, and ...

Showing results 41-60

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 6, 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 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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Spacex Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Spacex Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Spacex Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Software Engineer, Simulation

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

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, SIMULATION
As a software engineer on the NDE & Materials Software team, you will develop, improve, and advance our in-house multiphysics simulation engine-currently supporting high-pressure die casting and investment casting processes-to the next level. This role will expand the engine's capabilities to additional manufacturing domains, including additive manufacturing, welding, structural stress and strain analysis, grain prediction, and more. You will help apply these simulations to increase part yield, reduce inspection burden, and optimize parts across Raptor, Starship, Starlink, and other programs at SpaceX. Strong C++ software engineering skills and experience applying machine learning (ML) and AI to simulation solutions are key. Python experience is also required. The team consists of world-class experts in solidification physics, casting, metallurgy, and simulation. Experience with casting or solidification is not required-just a desire to learn, collaborate, and enable the best future for manufacturing at SpaceX.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Own software architecture and quality of simulation software used across SpaceX.
  • Develop and optimize next-generation software that integrates CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms for multiphysics simulations; contribute to transitioning results viewing to web-based 3D tooling.
  • Build advanced interfaces for viewing and interpreting simulation results.
  • Troubleshoot and debug issues related to software integration, meshing quality, and simulation accuracy.
  • Leverage machine learning and AI solutions-such as surrogate modeling and physics-informed neural networks-to accelerate simulations, enhance efficiency, drive novel improvements, increase part yield, reduce inspection burden, and optimize parts.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new features and automate processes.
  • Conduct testing and validation of simulation results using industry-standard benchmarks.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 5+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree.
  • 2+ years of software development experience.
  • 2+ years of strong C++ software engineering experience.
  • 1+ years of experience leveraging Python for data analysis.

PREFERRED SKILLS:
  • Experience working with numerical solvers for complex physics domains (e.g., tools like OpenFOAM, ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL Multiphysics).
  • Strong meshing skills for complex simulations (e.g., tools like NX, ANSYS Meshing, SnappyHexMesh).
  • Demonstrated experience applying machine learning and AI solutions (e.g., surrogate modeling, physics-informed neural networks, Fourier neural operators, neural operators, graph neural networks etc) to accelerate simulations.
  • Experience with visualization tools (ParaView, VisIt, Tecplot) and web-based 3D tooling (e.g., Three.js).
  • Experience with web development frameworks such as Flask, SQLAlchemy, and FastAPI.
  • Front-end experience in React or similar JavaScript UI frameworks.
  • Database experience with PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or similar database technologies.
  • Good understanding of version control, testing, continuous integration, build, deployment, and monitoring.
  • Strong Linux experience.
  • Knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC) environments and parallel processing.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail for optimizing simulation efficiency.
  • Excellent communication skills for documenting code and collaborating in team settings.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary.
  • Ability to travel to other SpaceX sites as needed (up to 20%).

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Level I: $125,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
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.
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.

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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