GNC Engineer, Collision Avoidance (Starlink) Verified today

SpaceX · Redmond, WA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-10-31

GNC Engineer, Collision Avoidance (Starlink)

SpaceX is looking for engineers with a hybrid background in both GNC (guidance, navigation, and control) and software development to join the Starlink Collision Avoidance team.

Starlink operates the world's largest satellite constellation, nearly half of the world's active satellites. Unlike legacy satellite operations that rely heavily on human-in-the-loop control, Starlink is designed from the ground up with autonomy in mind. Advanced algorithms enable satellites to remain aware of their surroundings and autonomously plan and execute collision avoidance maneuvers if they predict a high-risk close approach.

This team owns the full-stack collision avoidance pipeline: satellite-side algorithms, ground-side supporting services, and infrastructure for monitoring system performance on orbit. You will also design and implement algorithms for generating high-accuracy future state predictions of Starlink satellites to inform collision avoidance actions. Strong analytical skills are essential to analyze production data and simulations to support feature validation and future development.

Responsibilities

Design and implement autonomous on-satellite collision avoidance algorithms using C++.
Design and implement ground services necessary to facilitate fully automated maneuver scheduling decisions using C++ and Python.
Design and implement tools and dashboards for monitoring the performance of the autonomous collision avoidance system.
Design and implement orbit determination systems, including state and uncertainty propagation for accurate orbit prediction.
Run Monte Carlo analysis to characterize the performance of new features.
Perform bulk data analysis of telemetry from thousands of satellites and dozens of ground services to characterize system performance and identify improvements.
Write integrated test cases for satellite and ground software.
Write high-quality documentation for implemented software and tooling.
Monitor on-orbit system performance and troubleshoot as necessary.
Coordinate with third-party data providers and constellation operators.
Join the on-call rotation and command satellites when manual intervention is necessary.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in software, engineering, physics, or a related field.
Software development experience in either C++ or Python.

Preferred Skills and Experience

Master's degree in software, engineering, physics, or a related field.
2 or more years of experience in space mission design or related role.
Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, modeling and simulation, software development, statistics, or systems engineering.
Familiarity with state estimation and Kalman filtering, ideally with orbit determination applications.
Familiarity with the physics of the orbital debris and micrometeorite environment.
Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall.
Familiarity with micrometeoroid and orbital debris analysis techniques for assessing on-orbit risk.
Practical experience flying spacecraft.
Ability to identify and solve complex problems with little to no supervision.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere.
Examples of high-quality writing or software documentation from past projects.

Additional Requirements

Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Compensation and Benefits

Level 1: $125,000 to $165,000 per year. Level 2: $145,000 to $200,000 per year. Actual level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is one part of your total rewards package. You may be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave. 3 weeks paid vacation and 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles available for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the Redmond office, Monday to Friday.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.