Flight Software Engineer II

Where You’ll Make an Impact

• Develop flight and payload software for embedded spacecraft systems running VxWorks and Linux.
• Debug and integrate software with hardware subsystems across a variety of communication interfaces and protocols.
• Collaborate with avionics, payload, propulsion, and GNC leads to implement subsystem behaviors in flight software.
• Work with mission operations and ground software teams to design scheduling logic, command sequences, and autonomous behaviors.
• Support hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, system integration, and functional verification of spacecraft software.
• Document software behaviors, interfaces, and workflows to ensure cross-functional alignment across engineering teams.
• Operate effectively in a schedule-driven, rapid development environment

What It Takes

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience with C++ or another object-oriented programming language
• Proficiency in Python for scripting, testing, and automation
• Strong experience working in a Linux development environment, including but not limited to:
• Shell scripting (bash)
• Networking/IP
• Serial/UART interactions
• System-level debugging
• Experience with Git and Git-based workflows such as GitLab
• Ability to rapidly understand, navigate, and contribute to a large, previously developed codebase

Nice to Have

• 5+ years of C++ development experience
• Experience developing flight software or other spacecraft-related software (ground tools, test frameworks, payload apps)
• Background in embedded systems development
• Experience with Docker or other containerization tools
• Familiarity with common spacecraft interfaces such as I2C, RS-422/485, LVDS, SpaceWire, MIL-1553, Ethernet
• Experience with Rocket Lab MAX FSW
• Hands-on experience with VxWorks or other real-time operating systems (RTOS)

What You’ll Get

• Ownership – Build and shape the core software that executes on orbit and drives our mission capabilities.
• Impact – Contribute directly to spacecraft behavior, autonomy, and mission execution.
• Innovation – Work across hardware, software, and operations to develop the next generation of on-orbit systems.
• Growth – Expand your technical depth in embedded systems, flight software, and spacecraft operations.
• Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.