Software Engineer, Simulation

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. SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATION As a software engineer on the NDE & Materials Software team, you will develop, improve, and advance our in-house multiphysics simulation engine—currently supporting high-pressure die casting and investment casting processes—to the next level. This role will expand the engine's capabilities to additional manufacturing domains, including additive manufacturing, welding, structural stress and strain analysis, grain prediction, and more. You will help apply these simulations to increase part yield, reduce inspection burden, and optimize parts across Raptor, Starship, Starlink, and other programs at SpaceX. Strong C++ software engineering skills and experience applying machine learning (ML) and AI to simulation solutions are key. Python experience is also required. The team consists of world-class experts in solidification physics, casting, metallurgy, and simulation. Experience with casting or solidification is not required—just a desire to learn, collaborate, and enable the best future for manufacturing at SpaceX. RESPONSIBILITIES: Own software architecture and quality of simulation software used across SpaceX. Develop and optimize next-generation software that integrates CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms for multiphysics simulations; contribute to transitioning results viewing to web-based 3D tooling. Build advanced interfaces for viewing and interpreting simulation results. Troubleshoot and debug issues related to software integration, meshing quality, and simulation accuracy. Leverage machine learning and AI solutions—such as surrogate modeling and physics-informed neural networks—to accelerate simulations, enhance efficiency, drive novel improvements, increase part yield, reduce inspection burden, and optimize parts. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new features and automate processes. Conduct testing and validation of simulation results using industry-standard benchmarks. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 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. 2+ years of strong C++ software engineering experience. 1+ years of experience leveraging Python for data analysis. PREFERRED SKILLS: Experience working with numerical solvers for complex physics domains (e.g., tools like OpenFOAM, ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL Multiphysics). Strong meshing skills for complex simulations (e.g., tools like NX, ANSYS Meshing, SnappyHexMesh). Demonstrated experience applying machine learning and AI solutions (e.g., surrogate modeling, physics-informed neural networks, Fourier neural operators, neural operators, graph neural networks etc) to accelerate simulations. Experience with visualization tools (ParaView, VisIt, Tecplot) and web-based 3D tooling (e.g., Three.js). Experience with web development frameworks such as Flask, SQLAlchemy, and FastAPI. 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. Strong Linux experience. 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 (up to 20%). COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range: Level I: $1