Flight Software Engineer

Flight Software Engineer – Space Systems Location: Orlando, FL (Onsite) Full Time, Permanent Role Our client is a rapidly growing space technology startup seeking a Flight Software Engineer with 7+ years of experience to join their team. This role focuses on developing and maintaining onboard flight software for a cutting-edge space-based LiDAR payload running on a real-time/embedded Linux system. Working at the intersection of spacecraft and ground systems, you will play a key role in transitioning a LiDAR system from prototype to flight, ensuring tight hardware-software integration and reliable in-orbit performance.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and test flight software for a LiDAR payload operating in an embedded Linux environment; Lead hardware-software integration across onboard computers, sensors, and payload subsystems; Develop and maintain communication interfaces and protocols (CAN, UART, Ethernet, TCP/UDP, HTTP/REST); Implement system health monitoring, readiness checks, retry logic, and fault handling; Support verification and validation activities during integration and testing campaigns; Define and maintain software architecture, logging practices, and version control processes; Participate in code reviews and uphold software quality standards; Produce documentation aligned with space industry standards; Contribute to orbit-related functionality such as propagation, state estimation, TLE-based modelling, GPS integration, and use of spacecraft position/attitude data; Work with embedded Linux distributions (e.g., Yocto, Petalinux or similar)

Requirements

B.S. in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field + 7 years’ experience, or M.S./Ph.D. + 5 years in aerospace/space software; Strong experience developing software for embedded Linux systems; Solid understanding of hardware-software integration in embedded or spaceborne environments; Experience using Python for test automation, ground systems, or mission operations tools; Familiarity with communication protocols (CAN, UART, Ethernet) and version control (Git); Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills in lab, bench, or hardware-in-the-loop environments; Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; Ability and willingness to work onsite in Orlando, FL

Nice to have

Experience with JavaScript; Familiarity with embedded Linux frameworks (Yocto, Petalinux, etc.); Exposure to flight software frameworks (e.g., NASA cFS, ESA frameworks, or similar); Knowledge of space industry standards (e.g., ECSS) and software verification practices; Experience debugging in simulation or hardware-in-the-loop environments