Flight Software Engineer

A New Paradigm For Space Operations. Who We Are: Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster. This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space. What You’ll Do: The Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical software systems that control and operate our satellites, ensuring reliable performance and mission success in the challenging environment of space. Integrate and test software in simulation, flight replica, flight, and hardware-in-the-loop environments. Work with multiple engineering teams to establish software requirements and design. Partner with various engineering teams to commission newly launched satellites What It Takes: Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering. 2- 3 years of experience developing embedded or real-time software for space, aerospace, robotics, or mission-critical systems. Knowledge of software development through all phases of the system lifecycle—from requirements through flight operations. Entry level to Intermediate proficiency in C/C++, with working knowledge of Python or scripting languages for automation and testing. Familiarity with RTOS, bare-metal programming, or Linux-based embedded systems. Basic understanding of software reliability, deterministic timing, concurrency, and resource management in constrained environments. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder). Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Ability to maintain or obtain a Government Security Clearance is required. What We’d Love: Experience with flight software frameworks (e.g., NASA cFS, F’ FPrime, or custom architectures). Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and interface control documentation. Knowledge of space communication protocols (CCSDS, SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, etc.). *Our vision is unique, and so is the team we’re building. If you’re driven to succeed in this role, even if your background doesn’t fully align with every qualification, we want your application. Where You’ll Be: The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year). What We Offer: Equity-Based Compensation Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure Health and Wellness Stipend Commuter Benefits ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C.