Senior Flight Software Engineer

The role

You will design, implement, and test mission-critical flight software modules for the Nyx spacecraft. You will write C++ and Python code to interface with vehicle avionics, guidance, propulsion, communications, and ground control.

What you will do

• Design, implement, and own core flight software modules for spacecraft control, telemetry, data handling, fault management, and communications.
• Develop in modern C++ and Python for support tooling.
• Build and maintain test frameworks for automated unit, integration, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
• Create and run high-fidelity simulations to model flight dynamics, subsystem interactions, and edge cases.
• Collaborate closely with GNC, avionics, propulsion, and mission operations teams.
• Participate in code reviews, design reviews, and flight readiness assessments.

Required qualifications

• Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++17 or newer) and Python.
• Experience with real-time systems, embedded development, or spacecraft software.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of complex technical problems and drive them to resolution.
• Familiarity with software testing methodologies and simulation tools.
• Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and collaboration skills.
• Good understanding of math & physics.
• Focus on detail, quality, and testing.
• Experience with CI/CD systems and build systems.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of safety critical and real-time critical software and familiarity with RTOS.
• Good understanding of communication protocols such as: TCP/IP, UART, CAN Bus and serialization.
• Experience with automotive or flight software frameworks.
• Background in orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems, or space mission lifecycle.
• Experience with industry standards such as AUTOSAR, ECSS, DO-178.

Benefits

• Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.

Before you apply

• All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
• The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited to ensure the background check process.

About the company

The Exploration Company is building spacecraft for humanity. They are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity.