Pros
-I wake up early every morning excited to go to work. -Insider information for one of the most exciting and dynamic companies of our time. -ROCKETS! -As a software designer you are given the freedom to conduct your own research, prototyping and delivery of designs as you want. Though if it's out of line with company expectations or standards you will be put in your place immediately. There is ZERO tolerance for projects that are a waist of time and do not drive the mission of the company forward. -As a designer you get to shadow amazing users in the company to design tools for them (engineers, technicians working on vehicles, even astronauts!) -Great benefits, healthcare and dental on site. -Good discounted food options. -Company talks and tours for friends and family. -Work life balance wasn't bad for me. Software guys can work from home occasionally, and usually do about 50-55 hours a week. I came in early each day before 8 and left at 5pm so I could have dinner with my family and put my daughter to bed. I'd occasionally crack open the laptop at night and watch Netflix with my wife, no biggie! I've worked in much more strict environments. If you're a factory technician / on 40day 40night projects yeah you can work 100 hour weeks occasionally.
Cons
-Pay is median. Stock is nice, though it takes a while to vest. -I was laid off with the 10% purge that happened in the beginning of 2019. In order for the company to fund all the R&D for Starlink and Starship Elon had to let go all non-essential personnel (basically many people who don't actually design and build the hardware) so a lot of software and management. I was devastated. I only worked at the company for 7months, and expected to spend at least 5 years there. Many people like me are very dedicated to the cause and would do anything for it to succeed, even if it means being sacrificed so the company doesn't go bankrupt. God Speed SpaceX!
