Flight Software Engineer

Who We Are

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 to provide the United States with a new tool for securing the space domain and catalyzing the emerging space economy.

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. Responsibilities include integrating and testing software in simulation, flight replica, flight, and hardware‑in‑the‑loop environments, working with multiple engineering teams to establish software requirements and design, and commissioning newly launched satellites.

• 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.
• 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.
• U.S. citizen or national, or U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder). Applicants will be subject to a security investigation and must be eligible to obtain or maintain a Government Security Clearance.

• Experience with flight software frameworks such as NASA cFS, FPrime, or custom architectures.
• Familiarity with model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) and interface control documentation.
• Knowledge of space communication protocols (CCSDS, Space Wire, MIL‑STD‑1553, etc.).

The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA, with domestic travel potentially 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 comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.

Pay range: $120,000 USD – $150,000 USD.