knicewar

We have another group that focuses on Linux kernel, driver, and microcontroller stuff. They work mostly in C. See http://www.spacex.com/careers/position/2861.

Like I said, C++ skills are the #1 priority. I'm looking for people who are not just able to write high-quality new code but able to quickly jump into complex C++ code that other prople wrote and start contributing. A math/physics/simulations background is certainly a plus but that isn't required. Relevant post-degree work experience is desirable but we frequently hire recent grads who have demonstrated the skills we need during school. I look for evidence that a candidate has worked closely on a team SW project because few people here work in isolation. Software architecture experience is also very important, with focus on maintainable, reliable, and high-performance designs. We would like to upgrade our 3D simulation GUI, so if we find someone with 3D/GUI experience, that is a bonus. Our current GUI pales in comparison to KSP but it is functional.

Like I said, C++ skills are the #1 priority. I'm looking for people who are not just able to write high-quality new code but able to quickly jump into complex C++ code that other prople wrote and start contributing. A math/physics/simulations background is certainly a plus but that isn't required. Relevant post-degree work experience is desirable but we frequently hire recent grads who have demonstrated the skills we need during school. I look for evidence that a candidate has worked closely on a team SW project because few people here work in isolation. Software architecture experience is also very important, with focus on maintainable, reliable, and high-performance designs. We would like to upgrade our 3D simulation GUI, so if we find someone with 3D/GUI experience, that is a bonus. Our current GUI pales in comparison to KSP but it is functional.

Trust me, you'll want to live close enough to commute! Walking the factory floor every day never gets old and is quite inspiring!

Unfortunately due to ITAR Regulations we are unable to employ people that are not permanent residents of the U.S. (Green Card holders or U.S. Citizens).

It certainly doesn't hurt to try. And if the initial position isn't a match, we typically evaluate against other similar openings. * I work closely with the GNC folks for simulation, so I know they have a lot of exciting work ahead of them! * FYI, we have an excellent internship program.

Truth in advertising, I'm not a SpaceX HR person (but I do know a few), so I can't speak much to your experience applying to SpaceX. I'm an engineer in the Simulation Software group and what I can say is that we have a multi-layered process where resumes are first vetted by HR guys and then passed to the hiring manager. If you don't hear back in a week or so, don't give up! Try applying to different positions and make sure to have a great cover letter/email that highlights your skills and drive. We generally look for people who have demonstrated going above and beyond, like doing side projects at school or after work, so make sure to emphasize what you think you bring to SpaceX. Good luck!

Well, SpaceX does pay for relocation ...

Many of us here at SpaceX are big fans of KSP, and we are especially impressed and honored by the cool SpaceX fan mods. It occurred to me that some of KSP fans might be interested in getting paid to do space simulation software work, so at the risk of being too commercial for this forum, let me pitch the job opening in my group: SpaceX is a US based advanced technology company founded by residing CEO and CTO, Elon Musk. SpaceX builds rockets and spacecraft from the ground up including cutting edge electronics, software, vehicle structures, and engine systems. The Falcon Launch Vehicle and Dragon Spacecraft programs are some of the most ambitious engineering systems in the world, designed to support our ultimate goals of aviation-like spaceflight capability and making humanity a multi-planet species. We are actively seeking the brightest minds from all industries and technologies to continue building our world class team. Specifically, and relevant to this forum, we are seeking rock-star software engineers to join our simulation software team, where we develop complex physics-based simulations. Please note that an aerospace background is not required. In fact, we encourage fresh perspectives to problems by looking outside the typical industries. The main requirements are to have Jedi-like C++ skills and a keen eye for high-quality, high-performance software design. As a Simulation Software Engineer, you will be uniquely involved with space vehicle development all the way from pre-design exploratory analysis to pre-flight checkouts and mission operations. You will directly support a variety of other groups such as Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC), Structures, Propulsion, Aerodynamics, Avionics, Flight Software, Software Test, Launch Operations, and Mission Operations. You will help develop the software framework that makes it easier for other groups to develop, test, and maintain simulation models. You will also develop simulation models that are not covered by other groups. The simulation group will be working on the Mars mission long before most of the company! If you're interested, more details for the position and a link to apply are here: http://www.spacex.com/careers/position/3858. If you have questions, feel free to reply to this posting or contact us via our web site.