Lead Flight Software Engineer

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of flight software architecture, including GNC, telemetry, command, and fault management systems
• Define software requirements, interfaces, and verification strategies
• Develop robust, real-time, and fault-tolerant software using C/C++ or Rust in embedded or RTOS environments
• Perform software design reviews, code reviews, and verification activities to ensure compliance with space flight standards
• Mentor and guide software engineers through technical leadership and code quality enforcement
• Support spacecraft-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and flight simulation testing environments
• Participate in mission readiness reviews, anomaly resolution, and on-orbit software updates

Requirements

• BS or MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering
• 5-10 years of experience in embedded or real-time software for space, aerospace, robotics, or mission-critical systems
• Proven experience leading software development through the full system lifecycle
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ and working knowledge of Python or scripting languages
• Familiarity with RTOS, bare-metal programming, or Linux-based embedded systems
• Deep understanding of software reliability, deterministic timing, and resource management
• Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident (ITAR compliance)
• Ability to maintain or obtain a Government Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with flight software frameworks like NASA cFS or F' FPrime
• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE)
• Knowledge of space communication protocols such as CCSDS, SpaceWire, or MIL-STD-1553

Benefits

• Equity-Based Compensation
• Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Performance-Based Bonus Structure
• Health and Wellness Stipend
• Commuter Benefits

About the Company

Space Kinetic is a dual-use space technology startup building a new architecture for space operations, focusing on low-cost, operationally flexible, and distributed space missions.