Flight Software Engineer
Impulse Space · Boulder, CO · Today
On-siteEngineering$130k–$280k/yrFull-time
Responsibilities
- Contribute to the design, implementation, integration, and verification of software for: Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) algorithms
- Command and telemetry handling
- Mission sequencing, autonomy, and fault management
- Closed-loop control of propulsion, attitude control, and other time-critical systems
- Implement features for Impulse’s real-time flight software framework to meet deterministic performance requirements in space environments.
- Develop detection and mitigation algorithms for anomalies such as sensor failures, actuator malfunctions, or radiation-induced faults.
- Direct and participate in code reviews, ensuring compliance with software safety, reliability, and maintainability standards.
- Support mission operations and troubleshoot real-time issues during ground integration, environmental testing, and on-orbit operations.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related degrees
- 2+ years writing C++ code for an embedded system or vehicle of some kind (robot, car, drone, spacecraft, etc)
- Demonstrated understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, data structures, and computer networking
- Experience with Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) or with Embedded Linux
- Experience using version control, test cases, and other software best practices
Qualifications
- Proven track record delivering flight software for spacecraft— including launch vehicles, OTVs, upper stages, or other in-space propulsion systems.
- Familiarity with NASA cFS, ROS2, or custom middleware for space applications.
- 4+ years of demonstrated experience in designing software for deterministic timing and hard real-time constraints.
- Participation in successful integration, testing, launch, and mission operations of a space vehicle.
Skills
- Strong programming skills in C++
- Experience with real-time operating systems
- Knowledge of computer architecture and operating systems
- Understanding of data structures and computer networking
- Experience with version control and software best practices
Benefits
- Long-term incentives, in the form of stock options
- Medical, vision & dental coverage
- Access to a 401(k) retirement plan