New

Software Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

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.

SIMULATION SOFTWARE ENGINEER

We are seeking a skilled engineer to develop and maintain software that integrates open-source CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms, focusing on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), meshing, and simulation workflows. This role requires strong software development experience, including C++ and Python, along with expertise in numerical solvers and CAD tools.

Our team is building out our in house multi physics simulation engine to support multiple manufacturing processes at SpaceX. Our in house simulation software enables our partner teams to accelerate their production rates and improve the quality of resultant parts to push the boundaries of manufacturing for Raptor, Starship, Starlink, and other programs at SpaceX. Our team consists of world class experts in solidification physics, casting, metallurgy, and simulation. We are looking for a strong software engineer to take the simulation and associated tools to the next level of maturity. Experience with casting or solidification is not required – just a desire to learn, collaborate, and enable the best future for manufacturing at SpaceX.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and optimize software that integrates open-source CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms for multi physics simulations.
  • Generate and refine meshes from CAD models to ensure compatibility with simulation engine.
  • Scale simulation engine for a rapidly growing user base.
  • Troubleshoot and debug issues related to software integration, meshing quality, and simulation accuracy.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new features and automate processes.
  • Conduct testing and validation of simulation results using industry-standard benchmarks.

BASIC QUALIFCATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 5+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree.
  • 2+ years of software development experience.
  • 1+ years of experience with C++.
  • 1+ years experience leveraging Python for data analysis.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

  • Experience working with numerical solvers (e.g., open-source CFD software).
  • CAD software proficiency in tools such as NX, Ansys, or similar platforms.
  • Strong meshing skills for complex simulations.
  • Proven experience with open-source CFD software, meshing tools, and CAD platforms.
  • Strong knowledge of CFD principles, meshing techniques (e.g., hexahedral and tetrahedral meshing), and geometry preparation.
  • Experience with post-processing utilities such as ParaView for viewing, manipulating, and interpreting simulation results.
  • Experience leveraging Python for data analysis.
  • Familiarity with software development practices, including version control (e.g., Git) and basic DevOps tools.
  • Experience with web development frameworks such as Flask, SQLAlchemy, and FastAPI.
  • Knowledge of Slurm or similar simulation job queues.
  • Front-end experience in React or similar JavaScript UI frameworks.
  • Database experience with PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or similar database technologies.
  • Good understanding of version control, testing, continuous integration, build, deployment, and monitoring.
  • Experience with Linux applications and server components.
  • Knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC) environments and parallel processing.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail for optimizing simulation efficiency.
  • Excellent communication skills for documenting code and collaborating in team settings.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary.
  • Ability to travel to other SpaceX sites as needed.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    
    
Pay range:    
Software Simulation Engineer/Level I: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year    
Software Simulation Engineer/Level II: $140,000.00 - $170,000.00/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. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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. 

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