Principal Windows Systems Engineer

SpaceX
Full_time•$165k-230k/year (USD)•Hawthorne, United States

📍 Job Overview

  • Job Title: Principal Windows Systems Engineer
  • Company: SpaceX
  • Location: Hawthorne, California, United States
  • Job Type: On-site
  • Category: DevOps & Infrastructure
  • Date Posted: 2025-08-02
  • Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on designing and managing Windows infrastructure at scale, requiring a deep understanding of Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer will drive strategic projects and initiatives, mentoring engineers and providing solutions to adapt to new conditions.

  • SpaceX is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Windows Systems Engineer to join their Information Technology Windows Infrastructure team. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, driving strategic projects and initiatives that propel SpaceX forward in its mission to make humanity a multiplanetary species.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities focus on architecture, leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving, with a strong emphasis on Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies.

  • Architect efficient solutions with organization-wide impact.

  • Lead projects with various stakeholders from multiple disciplines to design and implement solutions at scale.

  • Mentor and train talented engineers in new technologies, processes, and best practices.

  • Provide rapid and effective guidance and solutions to adapt to new conditions and scenarios.

  • Communicate complex solutions effectively to stakeholders and leadership.

  • Document architecture, process, and promote open collaboration.

  • Identify blockers, inefficiencies, and single points of failure.

  • Provide and implement solutions to address problems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is typically required for this role, with a strong preference for candidates with relevant certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Cloud Administration).

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience:

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should have at least 10 years of hands-on experience in Windows operating system engineering and architecture, with a proven track record of driving organization-wide impact and leading successful projects.

  • 10+ years of hands-on experience with Windows operating system engineering and architecture

Required Skills:

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills focus on Windows operating systems, Active Directory, scripting, and cryptography fundamentals, with a strong emphasis on experience in multi-platform authentication and identification environments.

  • 10+ years of hands-on experience with Windows operating system engineering and architecture

  • Experience with Active Directory, Kerberos, and multi-platform authentication and identification environments

  • Experience with Windows-based systems and services (e.g., Active Directory Certificate Services, Active Directory Federation Services) in both physical and virtual environments

  • Scripting experience in PowerShell, leveraging source code and version control tools

  • Experience with cryptography fundamentals: PKI standards, data encryption, or key management

Preferred Skills:

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: Preferred skills emphasize experience in designing and leading successful projects, developing software solutions for API access and automation, leading and mentoring senior engineers, and working with adjacent technologies and disciplines.

  • 5+ years designing and leading successful projects with organization-wide impact requiring extreme uptime

  • 8+ years developing software solutions for API access and automation

  • 5+ years leading and mentoring senior engineers

  • Deep knowledge in Entra government cloud environments

  • Proven track record of influencing solutions cross-domain for success

  • Foundational experience/working knowledge with adjacent technologies and disciplines: datacenter infrastructure, Linux systems, database systems

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, candidates should be prepared to showcase their technical expertise through a portfolio of projects demonstrating their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies.

  • Portfolio Essentials:

    • Demonstrate experience with Windows operating system engineering and architecture through case studies or projects
    • Highlight leadership and mentoring skills through examples of guiding and training engineers
    • Showcase problem-solving abilities through examples of identifying and addressing inefficiencies and single points of failure
    • Display proficiency in PowerShell scripting and cryptography fundamentals through relevant projects or code samples

  • Technical Documentation:

    • Document architecture, processes, and best practices for Windows operating systems and Active Directory
    • Demonstrate experience with version control and source code management tools
    • Showcase understanding of security principles and best practices for Windows operating systems and Active Directory

💵 Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary Range: Principal Windows Systems Engineer: $165,000 - $230,000/per year

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive and in line with industry standards for a Principal Windows Systems Engineer role, considering the required experience level and the location in the United States.

  • Benefits:

    • Medical Coverage
    • Vision Coverage
    • Dental Coverage
    • 401(k) Retirement Plan
    • Short and Long-term Disability Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Paid Parental Leave
    • Paid Vacation (3 weeks)
    • Paid Holidays (10 or more per year)
    • Paid Sick Leave (pursuant to Company policy)
    • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
    • Various other discounts and perks

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

  • Industry: SpaceX is a space transportation company, developing reusable rockets and spacecraft for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. This role is within the Information Technology department, focusing on Windows infrastructure.

  • Company Size: SpaceX is a large company with over 6,000 employees, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and growth.

  • Founded: SpaceX was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, with the mission to revolutionize space technology, with a focus on reusability and sustainability.

  • Team Structure:

    • The Information Technology Windows Infrastructure team consists of various roles, including Windows Systems Engineers, with the Principal Windows Systems Engineer serving as a senior leadership position.
    • The team works cross-functionally with other IT departments, as well as with engineering, production, and mission operations teams to support SpaceX's mission-critical systems.

  • Development Methodology:

    • SpaceX follows Agile methodologies, with a focus on continuous integration and deployment, and a strong emphasis on automation and efficiency.
    • The team uses version control systems, such as Git, and collaboration tools, such as Jira, to manage projects and track progress.

  • Company Website: SpaceX

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

  • Web Technology Career Level: This role is at the senior leadership level, requiring a deep understanding of Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, as well as strong leadership, mentoring, and project management skills.

  • Reporting Structure: The Principal Windows Systems Engineer reports directly to the IT leadership team and is responsible for leading projects and mentoring engineers within the Windows Infrastructure team.

  • Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on SpaceX's mission-critical systems, requiring a strong focus on security, reliability, and performance. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer is responsible for designing and implementing solutions that support the company's goals and objectives.

  • Growth Opportunities:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX offers ample opportunities for career growth, with a strong focus on internal promotions and skill development. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role provides an excellent platform for further advancement into senior leadership or technical architecture positions within the IT department or across SpaceX.

    • Technical Growth: SpaceX encourages continuous learning and skill development, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies and projects. Engineers are encouraged to pursue relevant certifications and attend industry conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices.

    • Leadership Growth: The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role offers opportunities to develop leadership and mentoring skills, with the potential to move into more senior leadership positions within the IT department or across SpaceX.

    • Career Transition: SpaceX's diverse range of projects and departments provides opportunities for engineers to transition into different roles or specializations within the company, depending on their interests and career goals.

🌐 Work Environment

  • Office Type: SpaceX's Hawthorne, California, headquarters is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster innovation and creativity. The campus includes multiple buildings, with dedicated spaces for engineering, production, and office work.

  • Office Location(s): SpaceX's headquarters is located in Hawthorne, California, with additional facilities in McGregor, Texas, and Cape Canaveral, Florida. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role is based at the Hawthorne headquarters.

  • Workspace Context:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's collaborative work environment encourages cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing, with a strong emphasis on open communication and transparency. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with various stakeholders and teams.

    • SpaceX provides state-of-the-art workspaces, with multiple monitors, testing devices, and access to the latest tools and technologies.

    • The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, with regular training and development opportunities.

    • SpaceX's workspaces are designed to accommodate both individual and team-focused work, with dedicated spaces for meetings, brainstorming, and collaboration.

  • Work Schedule: SpaceX operates on a standard 40-hour workweek, with flexible hours and the expectation of working extended hours or weekends as needed to support mission-critical projects or deadlines. The company offers a competitive benefits package, including paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

  • Interview Process:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's interview process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, cultural fit, and problem-solving abilities. The process typically includes multiple rounds of interviews, with a mix of technical assessments, behavioral questions, and case studies.

    • Technical Assessment: Candidates can expect to participate in a technical assessment, focusing on their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies. The assessment may include hands-on exercises, coding challenges, or architecture design questions.

    • Behavioral Questions: SpaceX's interview process includes behavioral questions designed to assess candidates' problem-solving skills, leadership abilities, and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience driving organization-wide impact, leading projects, and mentoring engineers.

    • Case Studies: Candidates may be asked to participate in case studies, focusing on their experience with Windows infrastructure, Active Directory, and related technologies. The case studies may involve designing solutions, identifying inefficiencies, or addressing technical challenges.

  • Portfolio Review Tips:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should highlight their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies through their portfolio. They should focus on projects that demonstrate their leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to design and implement solutions at scale.

    • Portfolio Tip 1: Candidates should showcase their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies through case studies or projects, highlighting their technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.

    • Portfolio Tip 2: Candidates should demonstrate their leadership and mentoring skills through examples of guiding and training engineers, as well as driving organization-wide impact through successful projects.

    • Portfolio Tip 3: Candidates should showcase their proficiency in PowerShell scripting and cryptography fundamentals through relevant projects or code samples, highlighting their ability to automate tasks and optimize performance.

  • Technical Challenge Preparation:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should focus on brushing up their technical skills in Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, leadership, and mentoring. They should also familiarize themselves with SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture to demonstrate a strong fit for the role.

    • Challenge Preparation 1: Candidates should review their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, focusing on their ability to design and implement solutions at scale, as well as their problem-solving and leadership skills.

    • Challenge Preparation 2: Candidates should practice their communication and presentation skills, focusing on their ability to articulate complex solutions and technical concepts effectively to stakeholders and leadership.

    • Challenge Preparation 3: Candidates should research SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture, demonstrating a strong understanding of the company's goals and objectives, as well as their fit for the role.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

  • Frontend Technologies: N/A (This role focuses on backend and infrastructure technologies)

  • Backend & Server Technologies:

    • Windows Server (2012, 2016, 2019)
    • Active Directory (2008, 2012, 2016)
    • PowerShell (5.1, 6.0, 7.0)
    • Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
    • Azure Entra (Azure AD Entra ID)
    • Azure Government Cloud
    • Kerberos
    • PKI Standards
    • Data Encryption
    • Key Management

  • Development & DevOps Tools:

    • Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
    • Git
    • Jira
    • Confluence
    • Azure DevOps
    • Azure Pipelines
    • Azure Monitor
    • Azure Sentinel

👥 Team Culture & Values

  • Web Development Values:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: While this role focuses on Windows infrastructure, SpaceX's web development values emphasize innovation, collaboration, and a strong focus on user experience and performance optimization. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires a deep understanding of these values and a commitment to driving organization-wide impact through strategic projects and initiatives.

    • Innovation: SpaceX values innovation and encourages engineers to think creatively and push the boundaries of what is possible.

    • Collaboration: SpaceX fosters a culture of collaboration, with a strong emphasis on open communication and knowledge sharing.

    • User Experience: SpaceX places a strong emphasis on user experience, with a focus on designing intuitive, efficient, and performant systems and interfaces.

    • Performance Optimization: SpaceX values performance optimization, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, scalability, and reliability.

  • Collaboration Style:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's collaboration style emphasizes open communication, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional teamwork. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with various stakeholders and teams.

    • Cross-Functional Integration: SpaceX's teams work closely together, with a strong emphasis on open communication and knowledge sharing. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires effective collaboration with other IT departments, as well as with engineering, production, and mission operations teams to support SpaceX's mission-critical systems.

    • Code Review Culture: SpaceX encourages a culture of code review, with a strong emphasis on peer programming and knowledge sharing. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires a deep understanding of best practices for code quality, documentation, and version control.

    • Knowledge Sharing: SpaceX fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, with regular training and development opportunities. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role requires a strong commitment to mentoring and knowledge sharing, with a focus on driving organization-wide impact through strategic projects and initiatives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

  • Technical Challenges:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role presents unique technical challenges, requiring a deep understanding of Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies. Candidates should be prepared to address complex technical challenges, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, leadership, and mentoring.

    • Windows Infrastructure Challenges: Designing and managing Windows infrastructure at scale, with a focus on security, reliability, and performance.

    • Active Directory Challenges: Managing Active Directory environments, with a focus on multi-platform authentication and identification, as well as cryptography fundamentals.

    • Scripting Challenges: Automating tasks and optimizing performance through PowerShell scripting, with a focus on version control and source code management.

    • Leadership Challenges: Driving strategic projects and initiatives, with a focus on mentoring engineers and providing guidance for new conditions and scenarios.

  • Learning & Development Opportunities:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX offers ample opportunities for career growth, with a strong focus on internal promotions and skill development. The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role provides an excellent platform for further advancement into senior leadership or technical architecture positions within the IT department or across SpaceX.

    • Technical Growth: SpaceX encourages continuous learning and skill development, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies and projects. Engineers are encouraged to pursue relevant certifications and attend industry conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices.

    • Leadership Growth: The Principal Windows Systems Engineer role offers opportunities to develop leadership and mentoring skills, with the potential to move into more senior leadership positions within the IT department or across SpaceX.

    • Career Transition: SpaceX's diverse range of projects and departments provides opportunities for engineers to transition into different roles or specializations within the company, depending on their interests and career goals.

💡 Interview Preparation

  • Technical Questions:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's technical interview questions focus on candidates' experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, leadership, and mentering. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience driving organization-wide impact, leading projects, and mentoring engineers.

    • Technical Question 1: Describe your experience with Windows operating system engineering and architecture, with a focus on designing and implementing solutions at scale.

    • Technical Question 2: How have you managed Active Directory environments, with a focus on multi-platform authentication and identification, as well as cryptography fundamentals?

    • Technical Question 3: Can you provide an example of a complex technical challenge you've faced and how you addressed it, with a focus on problem-solving, leadership, and mentoring?

  • Company & Culture Questions:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's company and culture questions focus on candidates' understanding of the company's mission, values, and work environment, with a strong emphasis on cultural fit and alignment with SpaceX's goals and objectives.

    • Company & Culture Question 1: How do you align with SpaceX's mission to make humanity a multiplanetary species, and how does this role contribute to that mission?

    • Company & Culture Question 2: Can you describe a time when you had to work collaboratively with a diverse team to achieve a common goal, and how you approached that challenge?

    • Company & Culture Question 3: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, and how do you apply that knowledge to your work?

  • Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

    • 📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should focus on highlighting their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies through their portfolio, with a strong emphasis on leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving. They should also demonstrate their understanding of SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture to showcase a strong fit for the role.

    • Portfolio Presentation Strategy 1: Candidates should showcase their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies through case studies or projects, highlighting their technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.

    • Portfolio Presentation Strategy 2: Candidates should demonstrate their leadership and mentoring skills through examples of guiding and training engineers, as well as driving organization-wide impact through successful projects.

    • Portfolio Presentation Strategy 3: Candidates should showcase their proficiency in PowerShell scripting and cryptography fundamentals through relevant projects or code samples, highlighting their ability to automate tasks and optimize performance.

📌 Application Steps

  • 📝 Enhancement Note: SpaceX's application process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, cultural fit, and problem-solving abilities. Candidates should focus on highlighting their experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, as well as their understanding of SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture.

  • Application Steps:

    • Application Step 1: Submit your application through the application link provided in the job listing.
    • Application Step 2: Prepare a portfolio showcasing your experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, with a strong emphasis on leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving. Highlight your understanding of SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture to demonstrate a strong fit for the role.
    • Application Step 3: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience with Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technologies, as well as your leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving skills. Include relevant keywords and phrases to optimize your resume for SpaceX's Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
    • Application Step 4: Research SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture, and prepare for technical and behavioral interviews, as well as case studies and portfolio reviews. Focus on demonstrating your technical expertise, leadership, and cultural fit for the role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and SpaceX-specific industry standards. All details should be verified directly with SpaceX before making application decisions.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Web Technology-Specific Focus:

  • Tailor every section specifically to Windows infrastructure, Active Directory, and related technologies
  • Include Windows operating system engineering and architecture best practices, Active Directory management, and cryptography fundamentals
  • Emphasize leadership, mentoring, and project management skills, with a strong focus on driving organization-wide impact
  • Address Windows infrastructure security, performance optimization, and scalability principles
  • Highlight SpaceX's mission, values, and company culture, with a focus on cultural fit and alignment with the company's goals and objectives

Quality Standards:

  • Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information
  • Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about technical responsibilities, leadership dynamics, or company information
  • Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text
  • Strategically distribute Windows infrastructure, Active Directory, and related technology keywords throughout all sections naturally
  • Provide realistic salary ranges based on location, experience level, and Windows infrastructure specialization

Industry Expertise:

  • Include specific Windows operating systems, Active Directory, and related technology versions and tools relevant to the role
  • Address Windows infrastructure security, performance optimization, and scalability best practices
  • Provide tactical advice for Windows infrastructure portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies
  • Include Windows infrastructure-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance
  • Emphasize leadership, mentoring, and project management skills, with a focus on driving organization-wide impact and strategic initiatives

Professional Standards:

  • Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout
  • Use Windows infrastructure, Active Directory, and related technology industry terminology appropriately and accurately
  • Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to Windows infrastructure professionals
  • Provide actionable insights that give Windows infrastructure candidates a competitive advantage
  • Focus on Windows infrastructure team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and user impact measurement

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

  • Emphasize Windows operating system engineering and architecture best practices, Active Directory management, and cryptography fundamentals
  • Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to the Windows infrastructure discipline and role level
  • Address browser compatibility, accessibility standards, and user experience design principles (as applicable to Windows infrastructure projects)
  • Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable Windows architecture
  • Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for Windows infrastructure projects

Avoid:

  • Generic business jargon not relevant to Windows infrastructure or Active Directory roles
  • Placeholder text or incomplete sections
  • Repetitive content across different sections
  • Non-technical terminology unless relevant to the specific Windows infrastructure or Active Directory role
  • Marketing language unrelated to Windows infrastructure, Active Directory, or user experience

Application Requirements

Candidates must have 10+ years of hands-on experience with Windows operating system engineering and architecture, along with experience in Active Directory and multi-platform environments. Preferred qualifications include experience in leading successful projects and mentoring senior engineers.