Lead Engineer Spacecraft Avionics

Join a groundbreaking space company that is redefining orbital mobility solutions as a Spacecraft Avionics and Software Lead
. This unique opportunity invites you to architect, build, and validate a comprehensive flight system from the ground up, working on advanced propulsion-enabled platforms designed for responsive orbital maneuvering.

In this exciting role, you'll be at the forefront of defining the avionics architecture, integrating radiation-tolerant electronics, and spearheading the development of flight software—encompassing GNC algorithms, EPS design, and hardware-in-the-loop testing. You'll collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering leaders to ensure spacecraft safety, autonomy, and reliability from concept through critical design review (CDR).

This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for someone who is passionate about creating high-performance spaceflight systems in a dynamic and rapid development environment
.

Your Responsibilities:

• Oversee the complete avionics and flight software architecture through critical design review (CDR).
• Select and integrate commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) radiation-tolerant components for power, computing, and data handling.
• Lead the development of both flight and ground software (telemetry, real-time control, fault management).
• Define and implement guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms.
• Design electrical power systems (EPS), data bus architecture, and flight harnessing.
• Build and operate a flat-sat hardware-in-the-loop testbed for integration and validation.
• Develop interface control documents (ICDs) and maintain firmware/software configuration processes.
• Support subsystem integration and testing campaigns.
• Conduct failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) and reliability analyses.
• Lead subsystem design reviews and contribute to broader mission engineering milestones.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in software engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in developing avionics or flight software for spacecraft or other high-reliability systems.
• Strong expertise in embedded systems, spacecraft autonomy, or GNC.
• Proficient in C/C++ or Rust, with Python knowledge for scripting and testing.
• Experience with radiation-hardened processors and electronics (Microchip, Xilinx, etc.).
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as CAN, Space Wire, RS-422, and others.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration, and knowledge of EMI/EMC and power distribution design principles.
• Must be a U.S. Person (citizenship or permanent residency) required.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience with autonomy frameworks or fault-tolerant flight software.
• Knowledge of space-rated EPS or battery management systems.
• Experience in responsive space operations or in-space logistics.
• Previous work experience in a startup or fast-paced R&D environment.

Spacecraft Engineer
• San Francisco, CA, United States