Job Description
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. Key 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) Required Qualifications 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 Preferred Skills 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 Additional Requirements Strong written and verbal communication skills in English Ability and willingness to work onsite in Orlando, FL If you are interested, get in touch and apply now! angela.olmo@newspacetechnical.com