Software Engineer, C++ (Simulations)
SpaceX, Hawthorne, CA
- Pay
- Not listed by the employer
- Work type
- Not stated
- Level
- Not stated
- Area
- Software engineering
- Posted
- Sep 22, 2026
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About the role
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, C++ (SIMULATIONS)
As a Software Engineer on the Simulations team, you will design, develop, and test our in-house simulation software supporting all SpaceX flight systems. You will program the core simulation infrastructure and collaborate on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build high fidelity simulations used to develop cutting-edge software and hardware. Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. 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 software that is critical to SpaceX mission to Mars.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and maintain the high-fidelity real-time simulation software used for all vehicles
- Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
- Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo
- Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
- Work with simulation software users to develop new features and improve user experiences
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
- 1+ years development experience in C++
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Strong software design and development skills in C++
- Understanding of distributed computing systems, networking protocols, memory management, and CPU scheduling
- Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry)
- Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
- Creative approach to problem solving
- Experience with open source C++ simulators such as ROS2 and Gazebo
- 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:
- Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $125,000.00 - $160,000.00 Level 2: $145,000.00 - $195,000.00
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.
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Listed on SpaceX's Greenhouse job board; checked 4 h ago. First seen by us 32 h ago. Being listed doesn't mean the team is actively interviewing. We found this board in a public directory and haven't yet confirmed it against the company's own careers page.