Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon)

spacex· Falcon and Dragon Avionics & Software Engineering
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📍 Hawthorne, CA💰 USD 165K–230K

About this 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.

SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, C++ (DRAGON)

As a Sr. Software Engineer on the Dragon team, you will develop, analyze and verify the mission critical software configurations that fly our Dragon Crewed and Cargo vehicles. You will partner cross-functionally to ensure software is configured to each mission's specifications and needs. You will be responsible for ensuring the vehicle behaves as expected, and troubleshoot flight software when necessary. You will have a direct impact on our ability to launch and fly vehicles frequently, safely and reliably.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop, execute, and analyze the code and configuration for the software systems that fly our vehicles
  • Invent new tools that enable more frequent and reliable software deployment, automated data review, and automated configuration verification
  • Analyze test results and bugs that require in-depth investigations
  • Troubleshoot flight hardware/software systems with interdisciplinary engineering teams
  • Plan and execute vehicle testing milestones
  • Support mission operations as a flight software specialist
  • Roll out new software changes to the vehicle fleet
  • Occasional travel to launch sites and customer sites for testing and/or operations

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or science discipline OR 2+ years of experience in software development in lieu of degree
  • 5+ years of software development experience in C/C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Knowledge of electronics, controls, motor design, and physical mechanics
  • Strong fluency in Linux, including:
    • Bash shell scripting
    • Network troubleshooting
  • Experience building or working with real-time embedded systems
  • Experience with software documentation, creating system diagrams, and enumerating software requirements
  • Experience with software testing
  • Knowledge of state machines

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:         
Sr. Software Engineer: $165,000.00 - $230,000.00/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 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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.    

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) role at spacex?
The listed salary for this Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) position at spacex is USD 165K–230K. This is an full-time role.
Where is the Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) position at spacex located?
This Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) role at spacex is based in Hawthorne, CA. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Which team or department does the Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) at spacex belong to?
This Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) position is part of the Falcon and Dragon Avionics & Software Engineering department at spacex. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) position at spacex?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to spacex's official application portal hosted on greenhouse where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) job at spacex posted?
This Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon) position at spacex was posted on Jun 21, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Sr. Software Engineer, C++ (Dragon)
spacex · 💰 USD 165K–230K
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You'll be redirected to spacex's official application page on Greenhouse.