Senior​/Controls Software Engineer

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Space Kinetic is a cleared, venture-backed startup focused on addressing urgent national security priorities. Our goal is to deliver a suite of asymmetric capabilities for space superiority and missile defense leveraging our proprietary electromechanical deployment system, which enables the rapid deployment of low-cost payloads through space without firing a thruster. Space Kinetic is currently assembling its TRL-5 prototype. Our goal is to leverage this platform to provide the United States with a new tool for securing the space domain & catalyzing the emerging space economy.

We are seeking a Senior Real-Time / Controls Software Engineer to lead development of deterministic real-time control software supporting high-speed electromechanical aerospace systems. This role will own motor-control implementation, release timing logic, safety interlocks, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration for critical system functions. The ideal candidate understands both controls theory and low-level real-time software implementation and can translate GNC, MATLAB/Simulink, and Python-based models into reliable embedded flight-like control software operating in a fast-paced hardware development environment.

• Develop deterministic real-time control software for electromechanical aerospace systems
• Own motor-control implementation, release timing logic, and safety interlock architecture
• Translate MATLAB/Simulink and Python-based control models into production-quality real-time software
• Support development and integration of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) related algorithms
• Design and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and integration activities
• Work closely with GNC, electrical, mechanical, and systems engineering teams during development and test
• Support integration, debugging, and validation of control systems on prototype hardware
• Develop software interfaces for sensors, actuators, motor controllers, and embedded hardware systems
• Support system-level testing, troubleshooting, and rapid iteration during development campaigns
• Participate in technical reviews, architecture discussions, and safety-critical design decisions

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field OR Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field
• 5+ years of experience in embedded software, controls software, or real-time systems development
• Strong understanding of real-time software architecture and deterministic system behavior
• Experience with motor controls, actuator systems, or embedded control loops
• Experience working with MATLAB/Simulink and translating models into deployable software
• Strong programming experience in C/C++ and Python
• Experience supporting integration and testing of hardware/software systems

• Aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systems background
• Experience with HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) simulation and testing
• Familiarity with GNC algorithms and controls development workflows
• Experience supporting high-speed dynamic systems or safety-critical systems
• Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS, FPGA interfaces, or low-level hardware communication protocols
• Startup or rapid-prototyping experience preferred
• Real-time embedded systems
• Control loop implementation
• Motor controllers and actuator interfaces
• Sensor integration and signal processing
• Simulation and modeling workflows
• System debugging and integration testing
• Cross-functional engineering collaboration

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year).

• 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

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…