Software Engineer, C++ (Raptor)

We are looking for exceptional C++ software engineers who thrive on building high-performance, reliable systems that directly impact production speed and quality. Our team develops the core real-time software that powers advanced metal additive manufacturing machines for Raptor engines. In this role, you will own critical software across controls, data acquisition, build logic, and in-situ monitoring — turning complex engineering designs into flight-ready hardware at scale. You will architect production-grade C++ systems that push the limits of speed, precision, and reliability in one of the world’s most demanding manufacturing environments.

• →Architect and develop high-performance C++ software for production-scale manufacturing systems
• →Design and implement real-time control software, data acquisition pipelines, and monitoring algorithms
• →Collaborate closely with controls, automation, and hardware engineers to integrate software with motion systems, sensors, and laser hardware
• →Continuously improve system reliability, speed, and quality through elegant software solutions
• →Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and architecture discussions to maintain exceptional code quality and best practices
• →Provide first-principles solutions to production engineering challenges, rapidly iterating from concept to deployed software

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, or related STEM discipline and 2+ years of professional software development experience; OR 4+ years of professional C++ development experience in lieu of a degree
• Strong experience writing production-grade, high-performance C++ code
• Experience with modern CI/CD tools and Linux environments

• Experience with real-time or embedded systems development
• Familiarity with libraries such as QT, Boost, VTK, CUDA, or build tools like CMake
• Experience with microcontrollers, FPGAs, or hardware-software integration
• Background in manufacturing systems, controls software, or additive manufacturing processes (laser powder bed fusion or similar)

• 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.