Flight Software Engineer

Flight Software Engineer - Build Next-Generation Spacecraft Systems for High-Energy Missions!El Segundo, CA | On-siteOpportunity SummaryJoin a venture-backed aerospace startup developing advanced spacecraft designed to operate in demanding orbital environments. This role sits at the heart of vehicle development, where software enables guidance, autonomy, communication, and overall mission execution. You will work closely with founders and a highly technical team to architect and deploy flight software that supports real-time, safety-critical spacecraft operations. This is a high-ownership opportunity for an engineer who thrives in fast-moving environments and wants to see their work move quickly from development to flight. You will contribute across the full lifecycle of vehicle software, from architecture and implementation through integration, testing, and mission support, helping shape both the product and the engineering culture as the company scales.About UsWe are an early-stage space technology company building advanced in-space transportation and spacecraft systems aimed at expanding access to complex orbital missions. Founded by engineers with deep experience delivering flight-proven systems, the team combines startup speed with disciplined engineering practices to bring high-performance hardware and software together. Our environment emphasizes first-principles thinking, technical ownership, and rapid iteration toward real mission outcomes.Job DutiesArchitect, develop, and deliver core flight software to meet system performance and reliability requirementsDesign, implement, integrate, and verify software supporting Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) functionsDevelop real-time systems for command and telemetry handling, mission sequencing, autonomy, and fault managementImplement deterministic software features within a real-time flight framework for spacecraft operationsDevelop closed-loop control software supporting propulsion, attitude control, and other time-critical vehicle functionsWrite clean, efficient, and testable code for embedded and safety-critical applicationsBuild communication interfaces and networking protocols including Ethernet, UDP, multicast, and similar technologiesCollaborate closely with avionics, propulsion, GNC, and hardware teams across the full development lifecycleDesign and maintain embedded software targeting microcontrollers and vehicle compute systemsDevelop detection and mitigation algorithms for anomalies such as sensor failures, actuator issues, or radiation-induced faultsParticipate in design reviews and code reviews, ensuring strong safety, reliability, and maintainability practicesSupport hardware-in-the-loop testing, system integration, environmental testing, and mission readiness activitiesTroubleshoot and resolve real-time issues during testing and operational phasesMaintain clear documentation including architecture, ConOps, and software interface definitionsQualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar technical discipline2+ years of software development experience, preferably involving embedded systems or complex vehiclesStrong experience writing C/C++ for embedded or real-time applicationsSolid understanding of operating systems, computer architecture, data structures, and networking fundamentalsExperience with version control systems and modern software development practicesFamiliarity with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) or Embedded Linux environmentsUnderstanding of microcontroller architectures and hardware interfacesStrong debugging, performance optimization, and root-cause analysis skillsAbility to move quickly and contribute across multiple engineering disciplines in a startup settingU.S. Person status or eligibility to obtain required export licensingPreferred ExperienceHands-on experience delivering flight or vehicle software for spacecraft, launch vehicles, drones, robotics, or autonomous systemsBackground in mission operations, on-orbit support, or integrated system testingFamiliarity with NASA cFS, ROS2, or similar aerospace middleware frameworksExperience designing deterministic systems for hard real-time constraintsExposure to safety-critical software development processes or formal certification environmentsExperience with additional tools or languages such as Python, Rust, Git-based workflows, Grafana, or comparable platformsParticipation in integration, testing, launch, or operational phases of a space vehicle programWhy Join UsOpportunity to build flight-critical systems with real mission impactHigh level of technical ownership and influenceFast-paced startup environment with strong engineering autonomyDirect collaboration with experienced aerospace founders and technical leadersOpportunity for long-term growth as the company scalesWork on cutting-edge space technology pushing the boundaries of orbital operationsEquity participation and the ability to help shape a growing teamCompensation Details$135,000 - $225,000#LI-AV

Created: 2026-04-13