Software Engineer, Reliability (Avionics / Compute Systems)

Software Engineer, Reliability (Avionics / Compute Systems) About AetherfluxAetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient space-based solar energy. We are tackling one of humanity's most complex engineering challenges with a world-class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects-from orbit to Earth.BackgroundAetherflux is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our modular, scalable satellites collect sunlight in Low Earth Orbit to enable multiple integrated applications: powering on-orbit high-performance computing clusters (GPU/TPU), providing secure, high-bandwidth optical data transport, and delivering energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space).Current energy and data systems rely on complex logistics and outdated infrastructure. Aetherflux overcomes these challenges by enabling direct, on-demand, secure, and scalable energy distribution and data processing from space. This will fundamentally change how we operate in orbit and on Earth-supporting the rapidly expanding space industrial base, ISAM (In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing) operations, remote regions, and mission-critical environments.Aetherflux was founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt. Inspired by his father's work with NASA Langley Research Center, Baiju earned his B.S. in Physics and M.S. in Mathematics at Stanford before co-founding Robinhood, now a public company that has helped over 20 million Americans access the financial system.Aetherflux has raised $90 million from Index Ventures, Interlagos, Construct Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, NEA, and others.This is an ambitious mission that demands extraordinary talent. Aetherflux's team has worked at places like SpaceX, Astranis, NASA, Anduril, and the U.S. Navy, and is based in San Carlos, CA. If you're ready to solve complex technical challenges and help build a generational energy and infrastructure company, we want to hear from you.ResponsibilitiesOwn software reliability for avionics and compute systems across the full lifecycle-from concept, design, radiation hardening, and integration to launch and on-orbit operationsDesign, develop, and maintain automated test and validation frameworks for embedded and high-performance compute systemsDevelop software to validate performance, stability, and fault tolerance of CPUs, GPUs, and custom accelerators under mission-representative conditionsExecute system-level testing including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), environmental, and stress testing to identify failure modesCharacterize system performance (latency, throughput, resource utilization) and drive optimization across hardware/software boundariesInvestigate and resolve anomalies through deep root cause analysis, using data-driven approaches to improve system reliabilityDefine reliability metrics, test plans, and acceptance criteria for flight-critical systemsWork closely with electrical, avionics, and software teams to ensure robust integration of compute platforms into spacecraft systemsBuild internal tools to support rapid debugging, telemetry analysis, and system observabilitySupport vehicle and payload bring-up, integration, and pre-flight validation effortsSupport and participate in radiation testing campaigns of avionics and compute partsBasic QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field4+ years of experience in software engineering, reliability engineering, or systems validationStrong programming skills in Python, C++, or similar languagesExperience working with distributed systems, embedded systems, or high-performance compute environmentsFamiliarity with debugging complex system-level issues across hardware and softwareExperience building automated test frameworksPreferred QualificationsExperience with avionics systems, spacecraft hardware, or embedded compute platformsFamiliarity with GPU/accelerator-based systems and performance validation (e.g., CUDA, parallel computing)Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and system integrationStrong background in performance analysis, profiling, and optimizationExperience with observability tools, logging, and telemetry systemsUnderstanding of fault tolerance, redundancy, and high-reliability system designExperience operating in fast-paced, high-ownership environments (e.g., aerospace, defense, advanced hardware startups)BenefitsEquity in AetherfluxEmployees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement savings planPaid time off10 paid holidays per calendar yearPaid leave for new parentsRelocation assistanceDaily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacksDisclaimerThis job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Aetherflux's discretion.Export Control RequirementTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Equal Opportunity Employer