Principal Software Engineer (SpaceX Security)

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.

PRINCIPAL SOFTWARE ENGINEER (SPACEX SECURITY)

SpaceX is hiring a Principal Software Engineer to join our Security Engineering team which owns the custom security software, tools, and systems that protect against threats to our rockets (Falcon and Starship) and the network and technology utilized by our astronauts and employees. As a target of nation-states and malicious actors, it is paramount that we defend against loss of control or confidence in our systems to guarantee the highest probability of mission success.

You should expect to spend 80% of your time programming, automating, and writing novel security solutions to defend against the constantly changing threat landscape. We are looking for people with a track record of shipping reliable software and who have a broad understanding of security design and best practices.

In-depth security experience is not required to be successful in this role - we look for smart, motivated, collaborative software engineers who are excited about solving challenging security problems. If you are excited about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an inter-planetary scale, then you will fit right in.

Responsibilities

1. Design, build, and maintain software that provides security for SpaceX systems, networks, and data
2. Work with security, IT, and product teams to identify threats and problem areas and use that feedback to further strengthen our tools and technologies
3. Build security-conscious software and processes to support teams across SpaceX, measured in decreased risk and reduction of security issues
4. Collaborate with other multi-disciplinary engineering teams building our rockets and satellites to identify security problems and create efficient solutions
5. Create solutions that are scalable, repeatable, maintainable, and secure
6. Work collaboratively with others, including individuals in Information Security, Physical Security, Information Technology, Human Resources, Legal, and our various software teams
7. Be vocal about security improvements during collaborations on architecture, design, and code reviews

Basic Qualifications

1. 10+ years of professional experience in software development in Python, Golang, or Rust in lieu of a degree; Or Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 8+ years of professional development experience in Python, Golang, or Rust

Preferred Skills And Experience

1. Experience developing software using modern security best practices (i.e. TLS, Zero-Trust)
2. Experience with one or more of the following: SAML/OIDC, mutual TLS, networking, firewalls, vulnerability identification and reduction, threat hunting, container-based security
3. Developed, debugged, and deployed software that has been used in real-world security applications/projects
4. Experience building automation between tools and systems
5. Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & continuous monitoring
6. Familiarity with enterprise security controls and security best practices for Windows, Linux, and Mac systems
7. Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams
8. Ethical character and uncompromised integrity

Additional Requirements

1. Willingness to work extended hours and weekends when needed

Compensation And Benefits

Pay Range:
Security Software Engineer / Principal: $220,500.00 - $270,000.00/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, stock options, 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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.

Itar Requirements

1. 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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.