SpaceX Redmond, Washington: Starlink satellite jobs and what to know in 2026
SpaceX Redmond, Washington: Starlink satellite jobs and what to know in 2026
SpaceX's Redmond, Washington facility is the design and manufacturing center for the Starlink satellite constellation. As of early 2026, Redmond produces approximately 70 Starlink satellites per week — making it one of the highest-volume spacecraft factories in history. The constellation has grown to over 9,400 active satellites, comprising roughly 65% of all active satellites in orbit.
What happens in Redmond
The Redmond campus handles Starlink satellite design, manufacturing, integration, testing, and network operations. This is where satellites go from raw components to flight-ready hardware.
Key operations:
- Satellite assembly and integration (current V2 Mini and upcoming V3 satellites)
- RF system design and testing
- Flight software development
- Starlink network engineering and ground systems
- Customer terminal development
- Constellation operations and management
SpaceX is expanding the Redmond footprint with two new buildings at Redmond Ridge Business Park totaling over 124,900 square feet of industrial lab and manufacturing space. This expansion supports the planned V3 satellite production line — much larger satellites designed for Starship launches, with a target of 5,000–10,000 per year.
Roles and salary
| Role Category | Base Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Production Technician | $50,000–$75,000 | Assembly, integration, fabrication |
| New Grad Software Engineer | $122,000–$145,000 | Software, GNC, network |
| Mid-Level Engineer | $140,000–$170,000 | 3-7 years experience |
| Senior Starlink Engineer | $170,000–$250,000+ | Total comp with equity can reach $300K+ |
| Starlink Software Engineer (avg) | ~$185,000 base | ~$249K total comp including equity |
Total compensation includes SpaceX equity (pre-IPO stock options), which is the major differentiator. SpaceX runs periodic tender offers allowing employees to sell shares at private market valuations.
What's hiring now
SpaceX lists 220+ open positions in Redmond across:
- Production/Manufacturing — Production technicians, assembly specialists, fabricators, manufacturing supervisors
- Integration & Test — Starlink propulsion, bus and payload sub-assembly specialists
- Software Engineering — Starlink network, GNC simulations, growth engineering, new grad software
- Hardware Engineering — RF engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers
- Operations — Inventory specialists, sourcing, logistics, customer support, enterprise accounts
SpaceX Redmond has a Glassdoor rating of 3.5/5 (105 reviews) with work-life balance rated 2.4/5. The common work schedule is 6 days/week with 10-hour shifts (6x10s). Technicians report limited pay progression and being stationed at the same position for extended periods. SpaceX provides company shuttles from Seattle to the Redmond office. The pace is intense — this is volume manufacturing with aerospace quality requirements.
Safety note
A 2025 investigation found that Starlink lab workers were exposed to lead and chemicals when a lab shared ventilation with an adjacent office space. Washington state regulators found lead dust at levels exceeding OSHA limits and issued fines. SpaceX made ventilation changes after state involvement. Prospective employees should ask about safety protocols during interviews.
Redmond vs. other SpaceX locations
| Location | Focus | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Redmond, WA | Starlink satellites | Highest satellite engineering density |
| Hawthorne, CA | Falcon, Dragon, Starship design | Core vehicle engineering |
| Starbase, TX | Starship production & launch | Hands-on flight hardware |
| McGregor, TX | Engine testing | Every engine tested here |
| Cape Canaveral, FL | Launch operations | Falcon 9/Heavy launches |
Redmond is the best location for engineers who want to work on satellite systems, RF/communications, constellation operations, or high-volume spacecraft manufacturing.
Cost of living
Redmond is in the Seattle metro area — expect high housing costs ($2,000+/month for a 1-bedroom apartment). Washington has no state income tax, which partially offsets the cost of living. A senior engineer earning $185K base has better take-home pay than a similar salary in California.
Browse SpaceX positions on Zero G Talent, or see our SpaceX careers guide, SpaceX jobs guide, and satellite engineering jobs.
