Senior Flight Software Manager

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred)
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• 10+ years of experience in software engineering, with 2+ years managing or leading engineering teams (embedded or aerospace preferred)
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• Strong background in real-time embedded systems, including bare-metal, RTOS, and Linux environments
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• Proficiency in C and C++ (C++ experience highly preferred); experience with scripting languages such as Python or shell scripting
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• Experience defining system architecture and technical strategy
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• Familiarity with embedded Linux, Linux kernel modules, and development tools
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• Experience with microcontrollers and SoCs (e.g., Xilinx Zynq) and hardware/software integration
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• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to align cross-functional teams and drive execution
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• Working knowledge of modern software development practices including Git, CI/CD, and automated testing

• As the Senior Manager of Flight Software at Capella, you will lead the team responsible for developing and maintaining the software that runs Capella’s satellite fleet in space
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• You will oversee the full flight software organization, supporting mission-critical development and on-orbit operations across multiple programs
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• In this role, you will set the technical direction and execution strategy for flight software, while building and scaling a high-performing engineering team
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• You’ll partner closely with electrical, FPGA, systems, and ground software teams to deliver robust and reliable spacecraft software
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• This position offers the opportunity to shape the future of Capella’s flight software architecture, drive engineering excellence, and ensure consistent delivery of high-quality software across the fleet
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• Lead and manage the flight software engineering team, including hiring, onboarding, performance management, and career development
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• Own the overall technical direction, architecture, and execution strategy for flight software across programs
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• Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, mission-critical software for on-orbit and pre-launch systems
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• Drive and uphold engineering best practices, including code reviews, automated testing, documentation, and design reviews
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• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to align software development with system-level requirements and mission goals
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• Oversee software planning, roadmap development, and prioritization across multiple efforts
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• Support and guide architectural decisions, trade studies, and long-term technical investments
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• Maintain strong visibility into program execution, proactively identifying risks and ensuring timely delivery of milestones
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• Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team
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• Contribute to strategic planning and organizational growth as Capella scales