IT Network Engineer - Top Secret Clearance
SpaceXHawthorne, CA$130k – $160kPosted 13 March 2026
Job Description
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.
IT NETWORK ENGINEER – TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
SpaceX is looking for an experienced network engineer to drive the build, deployment, and operation of classified IT networks which support critical national security missions. This position will own the network design and be responsible for proposing and implementing continual improvements to add more capabilities and customers. This position is also responsible for monitoring and improving network security, improving network performance and reliability, and optimizing network deployments.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Lead the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of classified networks
Lead network integration and troubleshooting efforts
Improve network performance and reliability using system performance metrics, including capacity planning, failure detection, and remediation
Support capacity augmentation and network optimization deployments
Assist with system configuration updates and firmware management
Configure, install, and support campus and data center networks
Support the deployment of network access control (NAC) using 802.1X
Build automation for network devices, operational processes, and deployment tools
Develop and enforce network policies and standards
Create and maintain comprehensive network documentation
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or other STEM discipline and 3+ years of professional network engineering experience; OR 5+ years of professional network engineering experience in lieu of a degree
1+ year of networking experience deploying enterprise network solutions and/or cloud and web-scale networks
Layer-1 experience (e.g., transport, DWDM, optical fiber, circuit troubleshooting, activations, etc.)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Hands-on experience with the deployment of networking hardware (routers, modems, switches, firewalls, etc..)
Expert understanding of the OSI model and network standards
Experience with physical troubleshooting of fiber and circuits
Hands on experience with the following:
Cisco Catalyst and Arista data center class switches
Network Access Control (NAC) using 802.1X
DNS, DHCP, SNMP, IP helpers, ARP, CDP, LLDP
BGP routing
Switch port security features
Network monitoring tools
Network documentation
Linux/Windows system administration
Experience with Python scripting
Cisco, Juniper, Arista or other industry certification
Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Active Top Secret or TS/SCI with Polygraph. Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing
Must be willing to do some travel domestically and globally (
Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
Must be available for on-call rotations
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
IT Network Engineer: $130,000.00 - $160,000.00/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. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $15,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
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 ... (truncated, view full listing at source)
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