Flight Software Engineer

Flight Software Engineer

Location: California

Build the Software That Powers Space Missions

Our client is an innovative and rapidly growing space company developing next-generation spacecraft and satellite technologies. Their missions are shaping the future of space exploration, communications, Earth observation, and national security.

They are seeking a Flight Software Engineer to develop mission-critical onboard software that enables spacecraft to operate reliably in one of the most demanding environments imaginable. This is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to systems that will launch into orbit and beyond. 

The Role

As a Flight Software Engineer, you''ll work alongside spacecraft, avionics, GNC, and systems engineers to develop software that sits at the heart of space missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain flight software for spacecraft and satellite platforms
• Develop embedded software solutions in C/C++ for real-time and resource-constrained environments
• Implement software for command and data handling, telemetry, fault management, and onboard autonomy
• Support software architecture, integration, testing, and validation activities
• Work closely with hardware and systems teams to ensure seamless subsystem integration
• Participate in mission simulations, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and launch readiness activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve software issues during development, testing, and mission operations
• Contribute to software development best practices, documentation, and code reviews

Requirements

• Bachelor''s, Master''s, or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Strong professional experience developing software in C and/or C++
• Experience working with embedded systems and real-time software
• Understanding of software architecture, debugging, and performance optimisation
• Experience with Linux-based development environments
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work within multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Experience developing software for spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, or aerospace systems
• Knowledge of RTOS environments such as VxWorks, FreeRTOS, or RTEMS
• Familiarity with communication protocols including UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, or SpaceWire
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing and system integration
• Understanding of spacecraft subsystems, mission operations, or autonomy systems
• Familiarity with aerospace standards and verification processes

Why Join?

• Work on technology that will be launched into space
• Collaborate with some of the brightest engineers in the industry
• Competitive salary, bonus, and equity package
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Flexible PTO and paid holidays
• Career progression within a fast-growing space company
• Opportunity to make a tangible impact on future space missions