Senior Flight Software Engineer

Senior Flight Software Engineer - Help Build the Next Generation of Spacecraft Systems!El Segundo, CA | On-siteOpportunity SummaryA fast-growing space technology startup is developing advanced spacecraft systems for high-energy orbital missions across LEO, MEO, GEO, and cislunar space. Founded by experienced engineers with backgrounds at leading aerospace organizations, the team is building next-generation propulsion and vehicle platforms that push the boundaries of orbital access and mission capability. This role offers the chance to take ownership of critical flight software systems supporting upcoming vehicle demonstrations and future missions. You will work closely with a highly technical founding team, move quickly, and play a hands-on role across the full software lifecycle. As the company scales, this position has strong potential to grow in scope and leadership responsibility.About UsWe are an engineering-driven space startup focused on developing innovative spacecraft and propulsion technologies for demanding missions beyond traditional low Earth orbit. Our team blends deep aerospace experience with a startup mindset, emphasizing rapid development, high accountability, and mission-focused execution. We are building proprietary systems that enable new mission profiles and expand what is possible in space operations.Job DutiesLead the architecture and development of core flight software systems that meet performance, reliability, and mission requirementsImplement and integrate software supporting guidance, navigation, and control, command and telemetry, mission sequencing, health monitoring, and fault managementDevelop real-time and safety-critical software using clean, efficient, and testable coding practicesSupport embedded software development for microcontrollers and flight hardwareImplement and maintain communication interfaces such as UDP, Ethernet, and multicast protocolsCollaborate closely with avionics and hardware engineers across the full product lifecycleDesign and execute hardware-in-the-loop and system-level test activitiesProduce clear technical documentation for software design, operational concepts, and system behaviorQualificationsBachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field2+ years of professional software development experience, ideally in aerospace or embedded systemsStrong foundation in C or C++ with working knowledge of Python and Git-based workflowsExperience working with real-time operating systems and satellite or embedded communication protocolsSolid understanding of microcontroller architectures, interfaces, and system constraintsDemonstrated ability to debug, optimize, and analyze system performanceComfortable working in fast-moving, resource-constrained environmentsStrong problem-solving skills using first-principles engineering approachesPreferred ExperienceBackground in flight software, spacecraft systems, or mission-critical embedded applicationsExperience with telemetry systems, command and control software, or mission management toolsFamiliarity with safety-critical software development and formal certification processesKnowledge of memory management, scheduling, and fault analysis for real-time systemsExperience using tools such as Grafana or similar monitoring platformsPrior work in early-stage or high-growth startup environmentsWhy Join UsOpportunity to work on cutting-edge space technologyHigh-impact role with real ownership and responsibilityDirect collaboration with experienced technical foundersFast-paced environment with meaningful engineering challenges401k with company matchingFully covered medical, dental, and vision benefits for employeesPartial coverage for dependentsMeaningful equity participation in a growing companyAbility to grow with the company as it scalesCompensation Details