Spacecraft Flight Software Engineer

5 days ago

Rockville, MD, United States Quantum Space LLC Full time

Who We're Looking For

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy in cislunar and geostationary space. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and on-orbit maneuverability that enable customers to access, operate, and persist in orbits previously out of reach. We're building the infrastructure, vehicles, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth-Moon system.

We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software that powers our spacecraft and payload systems. You will work across subsystem teams to implement flight behaviors, command sequences, and on-orbit functionality that directly impact mission success. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, iterative environment and who enjoys working at the interface of software, hardware, and operations.

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
  • Familiarity with Agile software development processes
  • 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.


Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

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